On April 8 (Sunday), skywatchers will experience one of the most spectacular celestial phenomena of 2024: a total solar eclipse. A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, blocking the Sun’s entire face. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) in America states, “The sky will darken as if it were dawn or dusk.” According to the agency, the total solar eclipse of 2024 will cover North America, traveling over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. However, India would be unable to observe the celestial spectacle.
The full solar eclipse of 2024 will cross North America, traveling over Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
What Makes a Total Solar Eclipse Unique? Why Is a Total Solar Eclipse Such a Unique Occurrence?
According to NASA, there are four types of solar eclipses: yearly, partial, hybrid, and total eclipses. Typically, when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, the three celestial bodies do not align perfectly, and so the Moon does not totally obscure the Sun. According to the organization, a total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon, Sun, and Earth align and fully block the Sun. It is also regarded an unusual sight because the Moon’s orbit is not a perfect circle around the Earth, therefore it doesn’t generally orbit Earth in the same plane that Earth orbits.
Total Solar Eclipse Timings:
According to NASA, the Pacific coast of Mexico will witness totality first at 11:07 am PDT, followed by Maine around 1:30 pm PDT. According to Indian Standard Time (IST), the complete solar eclipse will start at 9:12 p.m. on April 8, and end at 2:22 a.m. on April 9, 2024.
Solar Eclipse: Myths And Facts About Food.
Important Food Facts to Remember During the Solar Eclipse:
Myth : Avoid eating totally.
People frequently fast during grahan (eclipse), believing that negative vibrations at that time taint food. Clinical nutritionist “Do not go insane over food during eclipses.” In reality, there’s nothing wrong with consuming small meals during the surya grahan.
Myth : Fear of contamination
People throw cooked food after eclipses due to fear of contamination. Regarding the theory, NASA claims that if the radiation during the eclipse impacts food, it must damage both the groceries in your pantry and the crops in the fields. The government goes on to say that if food is accidentally tainted during the eclipse, the phenomena is not to blame.
Myth : Practice dietary limitations.
The eclipse is a high-energy moment with strong vibrations. “The solar eclipse, especially, is a moment to connect with oneself, meditate, or simply rest.
What to eat during the Solar Eclipse?
According to common beliefs in India, the period of solar eclipse is considered bad for pregnant women, and they must take precautions during the eclipse. Many civilizations and traditions encourage fasting during solar eclipses as a means of spiritual purification. Fasting is thought to cleanse the body and mind, allowing people to concentrate on prayer, meditation, and contemplation during this holy week. Those fasting may choose to drink only water or eat basic, readily digestible items such as fruits and nuts. Surya Grahan is related with a variety of beliefs in addition to this one. Here is a list of foods that can be eaten and avoided.
Sattvik Foods
In Hinduism, it is believed that during eclipses, the atmosphere is filled with negative energy, and that ingesting sattvic (clean) meals helps to combat this. Sattvic foods include fresh fruits and vegetables, cereals, nuts, seeds, and dairy products. These foods are thought to be light, nourishing, and beneficial to keeping a clear and peaceful mind.
Coconut water, a nourishing and refreshing beverage, is frequently consumed during eclipses. Coconut water, which is high in electrolytes and nutrients, keeps the body hydrated and balanced, making it a perfect choice for staying energized throughout the eclipse.
Turmeric Milk
Also known as golden milk, it is a calming and nourishing beverage with several health benefits. During eclipses, turmeric milk is frequently taken due to its cleansing effects, capacity to increase immunity, and promote general well-being.
Sesame seeds
Sesame seeds are regarded lucky in many cultures and are commonly ingested during eclipses to represent protection and good fortune. These nutritionally dense seeds are high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them an excellent addition to any eclipse diet.
Which foods to avoid?
Cooked food
Cooked food is generally avoided during solar eclipses because it is supposed to be polluted by bad energy. Instead, it is advisable to eat raw or minimally cooked foods that are simple to digest and free of contaminants.
Garlic and onion
In some cultures, onion and garlic are regarded as rajasic (stimulating) and tamasic (dull) foods, respectively, which are said to create negative energy and upset the mind. As a result, these substances are frequently avoided during eclipses in favor of more sattvic options.
Alcohol
Alcohol, caffeine, and other stimulants are thought to alter the body’s natural energy flow, perhaps increasing feelings of agitation and restlessness during eclipses.
Non-vegetarian foods
Non-vegetarian food is often avoided during solar eclipses since it is considered heavy, unclean, and difficult to digest. Individuals are advised to choose plant-based diets that are lighter, cleaner, and better suited to spiritual practice.
The The 2024 Total Solar Eclipse is a momentous event that will draw global attention. Consider incorporating sattvic meals, fasting, and mindful eating habits during Surya Grahan, as well as consulting with healthcare professionals.
