During Sharad Purnima, families gather to celebrate the full moon with delicious traditions. One cherished custom is making kheer, a delicious rice pudding that's sweet and creamy. But what makes this kheer even more special is the practice of leaving it out under the moonlight before sharing it with loved ones. This practice is not merely ceremonial; it carries various health benefits that have been revered through generations.
The Significance of Moonlight
Many cultures believe that moonlight has purifying and healing qualities. This idea comes from traditional practices that suggest food left outside under the bright moon can absorb its energy. In Ayurveda, the moon is linked to coolness and nourishment, and its energy is thought to improve the food's taste and health benefits. So, when you let kheer sit in the moonlight, it’s believed to not only become more delicious but also more nutritious.
Benefits of Eating Kheer Left Under the Moonlight on Sharad Purnima
Nutritional Benefits of Kheer
According to a 2014 study, kheer is known as a healthy dessert because it combines the nutrients found in both milk and rice. It's made by simmering milk while cooking rice in an open pan over low heat, adding sugar toward the end of the cooking process. This traditional dish not only offers a delightful taste but also packs a nutritional punch, making it a popular choice in Indian cuisine.
Role of Ingredients: What Makes Kheer Special
Rice is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy, while milk is rich in protein, calcium, and essential vitamins. The nuts and dry fruits often added to kheer, such as almonds, cashews, and raisins, further enhance its nutritional profile by providing healthy fats, fibre, and antioxidants.
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Amplifying Nutrients: The Impact of Moonlight on Kheer
When kheer is left under the moonlight, its nutritional benefits are believed to be amplified. Some practitioners of Ayurveda suggest that moonlight can enhance the bioavailability of certain nutrients, making them easier for the body to absorb. This process may support better digestion and nutrient assimilation.
Mental Health Benefits of Sharing Kheer
The process of making kheer can be therapeutic, promoting mindfulness and a sense of belonging. Engaging in such communal activities can enhance mental health by reducing stress and increasing happiness and connectedness.
Mindfulness and Connection Through Food
Beyond its physical benefits, consuming kheer left under moonlight may have positive effects on mental health. The ambience created by the full moon is often associated with calmness and relaxation. Eating kheer during this time can be a mindful practice that encourages gratitude and reflection, promoting peace.
Moreover, the tradition is steeped in cultural significance, which can instil a sense of pride and continuity among individuals, enhancing emotional well-being.
Also Read: 2024 Sharad Purnima : Best Time for Moonlight Meditation and Manifestation
Antioxidant Properties
Additionally, exposure to moonlight may enhance the antioxidant properties of food. According to a 2019 study, these antioxidants help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals, which play a significant role in the development of various chronic conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, ageing, heart disease, anaemia, cancer, and inflammation. Kheer, already rich in nutrients, may benefit from these enhanced properties when left under the moonlight.
Frequently Asked Questions
When to keep Kheer in Sharad Purnima?
On Sharad Purnima, kheer is traditionally prepared in the evening and placed under the open moonlight, typically after sunset, so it can absorb the moon's energy. It is left outside until midnight or a few hours before it is consumed the next day.
Can we eat non-veg on Sharad Purnima 2024?
Sharad Purnima is a day of religious observance, and many people choose to follow a vegetarian diet as part of the festival. Non-vegetarian food is generally avoided, as the day is dedicated to rituals and worship. However, this can vary based on personal or regional practices.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only, hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]