Ekadashi

Ekadashi (meaning eleven in Sanscrit) is an auspicious day which occurs twice in a Hindu calendar month. It is the eleventh lunar day of each of the two lunar phases which occur in a month – the period of the brightening moon (also known as the waxing phase), and the period of the fading moon (also known as the waning phase).

In Hinduism and Jainism it is considered a spiritual day and is usually observed by a partial fast. Only fruit, vegetables, and milk products are eaten during Ekadashi. This period of abstinence runs from sunrise on the day of Ekadashi to sunrise on the following day.

Because spiritual vibrations are heightened on this day with the particular configuration of moon and earth, it is considered beneficial also to keep silence, turn inwards and intensify one's meditation and other spiritual practices.