Avoiding Meat in Shrawan: A Matter of Faith or Health?
Kathmandu, July 16
The month of Shrawan (mid-July to mid-August) is a special time in Nepal, both spiritually and seasonally. Marked by monsoon rains and deep religious meaning, Shrawan is considered the favorite month of Lord Shiva. Many devotees fast, perform rituals, and avoid eating meat and other restricted foods to seek his blessings.
While the religious reasons for avoiding meat during Shrawan are widely known, experts say there are also scientific and health-based reasons behind the practice.
Why is meat avoided during Shrawan?
1. Religious Significance
In Hindu tradition, Shrawan is a holy month devoted to Lord Shiva. To maintain spiritual purity, many people follow strict diets and avoid meat, alcohol, and other stimulants. The focus is on simplicity, devotion, and self-discipline.
2. Slower Digestion During Monsoon
The high humidity and cooler temperatures during monsoon slow down the body’s metabolism. This makes digestion less efficient, and heavy foods like meat become harder to process. Eating meat in this season can lead to issues like bloating, acidity, and stomach discomfort.
3. Risk of Food Contamination
Warm and moist monsoon conditions are perfect for the growth of bacteria and parasites, especially in meat. Without proper storage, meat spoils quickly and can cause foodborne illnesses like diarrhea, vomiting, and food poisoning. Avoiding meat is a safer option during this season.
4. Protecting Wildlife and Nature
Monsoon is the breeding season for many animals, including fish, chickens, and other small creatures. Cutting back on meat consumption during this time helps protect these species and supports the natural reproductive cycle, promoting biodiversity and ecological balance.
5. Harmful Hormones and Chemicals
During breeding, animals go through hormonal changes that can affect the quality of their meat. These hormones, if consumed, can disturb the human body’s balance. Also, during monsoon, animals may ingest contaminated food and water, which can make their meat unsafe.
6. Ayurvedic Viewpoint
According to Ayurveda, the rainy season disturbs the Vata and Kapha doshas in the body. Eating heavy, oily food like meat can make this worse. A light, plant-based diet—like lentils, vegetables, and greens—is recommended to keep the body healthy and balanced.
7. Environmental Pollution
Heavy rains can carry pesticides and fertilizers from fields into water sources. Animals that drink this contaminated water or graze nearby can absorb these harmful chemicals. Eating such meat can increase the risk of chronic health problems in humans.
In summary, avoiding meat in Shrawan isn’t just about religion—it’s also about health, hygiene, the environment, and well-being. This age-old practice blends cultural tradition with modern science, reminding us that mindful living often has deeper roots than we realize.
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