Two main ingredients to the 8-10 day long Paryusahan Parva are:
To reflect on one’s past deeds and to abstain oneself from sensory pleasures that restrict the true nature and purity of the soul. Both Digambara and Swetambar Jains observe the ritual of Paryushan, but for different duration of days. The Swetambar observe it for 8 days while the degambara for 10 days.
During these days one essential ingredient is Fasting. In Jainism Fasting is supposed to be a spiritual journey that connects oneself to the soul and scientifically purifies the body from all sorts of toxins. The fast is called “Dasha-Lakshana Vrata”, and spells though the entire 10 days of Paryushan.
Food restrictions:
During Paryushan, Jains follow the following restrictions on diet.
1. Drink boiled water.
2. Eat before sunset.
3. Refrain from root vegetables like Onion, Garlic, and Potatoes.
4. Abstain the intake of fermented (soured) food.
5. Don’t take even the green vegetables.
Paryushan
All the above mentioned items are supposed to contain far more amount of lives (atmas) than the simple grains. Thus, by restricting oneself from intake of these items, a Human Being commits less sin and reaches closer to salvation, the sole purpose of Paryushan.
Paryushan Video
Paryushan Songs