What if, on the very night of Shivratri, you’ve done everything right — fasting in the proper way, chanting the right mantras in the correct numbers, and not neglecting any ritual? But when you do paraan (break the fast according to the methods described in the Shiv Puran), something feels off. But! But! But! You’re not feeling what your pooja mates are talking about. One person says, “I can still feel Shiva in me,” and another person says, “I feel so connected with Shiva that I could go one more day without eating and worship Shiva with the utmost devotion.”
And then you start to question: What went wrong in the pooja that I’m not feeling any of these things?
Well, if the above text feels relatable to you, don’t worry — you’re not alone in this. You’re just one among many who struggle to establish a heavenly connection with Bholenath. But it’s okay; that doesn’t mean Lord Shiva is angry with you. It simply means you’re missing out on the most crucial thing. Let me explain it with the help of an example: When you call somebody living in a foreign land, how do they receive the call? Through towers that send the signals. Or, if you’re sending a letter, there’s always a postman who delivers your letter to the concerned person. So, in both cases, we have an intermediary who helps connect A with B. The same applies to us and God. No doubt, we need pure intentions to connect with Him, but sometimes, if you feel something isn’t working the way it’s working for others, then you need to adapt and change.
That change for you could be to get a Rudraksha and keep it in your hand throughout the You might know the story of Rudraksha. It is the tree that originated from the tears of Shiva. These tears are undoubtedly pure because they belong to Shiva, but there is another reason as well. Shiva meditated for years to save this world from something truly disastrous. And when he opened his eyes, these tears were the first to fall to the ground. Since they were the result of millions of years of worship, they were so pure that their purity surpasses our imagination.
How Rudraksha Brings Shiva’s Blessings?
Wearing Rudraksha on Mahashivratri is incredibly powerful. The Shiv Puran says:
रुद्राक्षं परमं शुद्धं शिवद्रव्यं महाशिवरात्रे।
य: पाति सदा सुखी स्यात् सर्वापदां च नश्यति॥
Meaning:
“Rudraksha is the PUREST form of Shiva’s energy. On Mahashivratri, wearing it brings happiness and removes all obstacles.”
5 Things You Must Do Before Wearing Rudraksha
(And What Happens If You Don’t)
1. Pick the Right Rudraksha
If you don’t choose the right type of Rudraksha, it might not bring the specific benefits you’re hoping for. For instance, a 1-mukhi Rudraksha is said to be great for meditation and connecting with Lord Shiva’s energy, while a 5-mukhi bead is better for general peace and spiritual growth.
How to do it:
Before buying, take a moment to think about what you need. If you’re looking for protection and peace, a 5-mukhi might be perfect. If you want deep spiritual focus, consider a 1-mukhi. You can even consult an astrologer to guide you!
2. Cleanse It Before You Wear It
Not cleansing your Rudraksha can leave it carrying unwanted negative energy. It might not work as effectively, and you could feel disconnected from its benefits.
How to do it:
Before you wear it, rinse your Rudraksha in water or dip it in a mixture of milk and water. You can also chant a mantra during this process, like “Om Namah Shivaya,” to clear the energy. After cleansing, you’ll feel a renewed connection with its divine power.
3. Set an Intention
If you skip setting an intention, you might not experience the full spiritual impact of the Rudraksha. Without a clear goal, it’s just a bead and may not connect deeply with your energy.
How to do it:
Hold the Rudraksha in your hand and take a moment to focus. You can say something like, “I wear this to seek peace and healing,” or whatever aligns with your needs. This sets a powerful intention for its energy to work in your life.
4. Wear It with Respect
If you don’t treat the Rudraksha with respect, you may not receive its full benefits. Wearing it while doing impure activities like drinking or fighting can block its positive energy.
How to do it:
Treat your Rudraksha as a sacred object. Don’t wear it during times when you’re angry, upset, or engaging in unhealthy habits. Wear it when you meditate, pray, or even during moments of calm to connect with Shiva’s energy.
5. Know How to Wear It
If you don’t wear Rudraksha properly, you might not fully experience its energy. Wearing it in a way that’s uncomfortable or not in direct contact with your skin can lessen its effects.
How to do it:
Wear the Rudraksha around your neck or on your wrist, and make sure it touches your skin directly. You can even keep it in your prayer space or carry it in your pocket. The closer it is to you, the better the connection to its powerful energy!
Conclusion
By following these simple steps, Rudraksha can truly transform your Shivratri experience. It’s not just about wearing a bead; it’s about connecting with Lord Shiva’s energy and inviting His blessings into your life. With the right Rudraksha, a clear intention, and respect, you’re sure to feel His divine presence like never before.