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The Times of India
The Times of India
Lifestyle
TIMESOFINDIA.COM

Chandra Grahan 2023: Lunar Eclipse and its impact on pregnancy

Eclipses are noteworthy astronomical occurrences that are seldom seen. A lunar eclipse, also known as a Chandra Grahan, is a celestial event in which the Earth blocks the Moon's light from reaching the Sun. This results in a straight line containing the Earth between the Sun and the other two celestial bodies.

The forthcoming Lunar Eclipse is not only highly significant in the fields of astrology and astronomy, but it is also believed to have an impact on people's health, particularly that of expectant mothers. Eclipses are rare and significant astronomical events. Chandra Grahans, or lunar eclipses, occur when the Earth blocks the Moon's light from reaching the Sun. This happens when the Earth is positioned in the centre of a straight line that is formed by the Sun, the Earth, and the Moon. When the Earth blocks part of the Sun's direct light from reaching the full Moon's surface and entirely or partially blocks the light.

Nevertheless, our culture has associated this celestial phenomenon with a great deal of myths, misconceptions, and false beliefs.

Not only will the next Lunar Eclipse be important for astrology and astronomy, but people's health, especially that of expectant mothers, will be affected, so the popular belief goes.

Significance of eclipses

Since it is thought that any planetary motion or location of celestial bodies, including the Sun and Moon, may have an impact on a person's health, eclipses are viewed to be extremely significant.

Similarly, custom holds that variations in the locations of the Sun and Moon might have an effect on pregnancy. This is the reason pregnant women in various cultures, communities, and places are often advised to take extra precautions to minimize possible risks. It's a common view that prevention is better than treatment, whether or not one subscribes to it.

In India, there are a lot of made-up urban legends regarding eclipses. These bizarre rituals include, for example, telling expectant mothers to take extra precautions, not leaving food unattended during the eclipse due to contamination concerns, bathing immediately following the eclipse, forbidding sexual intercourse during the eclipse, and more.

Mythology behind Lunar Eclipse

Eclipses were once considered to be caused by Rahu and Ketu, two demons known for "eating" the Sun and the Moon, respectively. The whole thing became unlucky since these incidents were connected to demons. Generations of people passing down this "bad omen" moniker for eclipses led to the eventual development of superstitions about our most basic needs (eating) and important life stages (getting pregnant).

Lunar Eclipse effect on pregnancy and widespread perceptionIt has long been believed that pregnant women should avoid solar and lunar eclipses. It is advised that expectant mothers take additional safety measures during the eclipse to safeguard their personal health as well as the health of their unborn children.

It's commonly held that women shouldn't leave their houses during an eclipse since doing so could jeopardise their unborn children and possibly result in early labour, even though there is no scientific proof to back the allegations. Due to how firmly embedded these cultural myths and beliefs are, many people have even attempted to refute them. Nonetheless, some people continue to follow these traditions.

Guidelines for expecting mothersThere is no credible data or empirical research to back up claims that pregnant women may be affected by a lunar eclipse. For those of you who still want to take safety precautions, here is a list of dos and don'ts:

Steer clear of the outdoors and don't consume any food that was prepared prior to the eclipse.

Pregnant women are required to take a break from work and relax during the eclipse.

Steer clear of food and liquids during an eclipse.

- To keep the light from the eclipse from entering your house, cover the windows with thick drapes, newspapers, or cardboard.

- Have a bath following the eclipse.

It is impossible to determine whether eclipses, despite their frequent occurrence, have any impact on a person's health or capacity to conceive. In the end, it boils down to your personal convictions and the direction you decide to go.

Above all, prioritise your health and well-being over lies and misconceptions.

Can a lunar eclipse harm your health?Since it is thought that any planetary motion or location of celestial bodies, including the Sun and Moon, may have an impact on a person's health, eclipses are viewed to be extremely significant.

How do lunar eclipses impact expectant mothers?Although there is no scientific proof to back up the ancient beliefs, pregnant women are supposed to take additional care for both the health of the unborn child and themselves.

What should pregnant women avoid during the Lunar Eclipse?During a lunar eclipse, pregnant women are advised to stay inside, avoid eating or drinking anything, and take a bath when the eclipse ends. Additionally, they have to stay indoors during the eclipse.

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