Certain days in the Vedic calendar are considered especially powerful, and Amavasya (New Moon) is one of them. Falling on March 18, 2026, it is traditionally a time for introspection, letting go of negativity, and connecting with ancestors. Just a couple of days later, on March 21, 2026, Matsya Jayanti will be celebrated to honor Lord Vishnu’s Matsya (fish) incarnation, when he saved humanity and sacred texts from a great flood.
According to Vedic astrologer Heena from Astrotalk, such spiritually charged days are not just about rituals; they are about aligning your thoughts, actions, and environment with positive energy. Here is a simple guide to what you can do (and what to avoid) to make the most of this time.
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Remedies to follow
- Offer water to the Peepal tree: Pour water mixed with black sesame seeds at the roots of a Peepal tree. According to Vedic belief, this helps in seeking blessings from ancestors and resolving past karmic imbalances.
- Chant the Maha Mrityunjaya mantra: Chanting this powerful mantra 108 times is said to bring protection, healing, and inner strength, especially during spiritually sensitive days.
- Donate black items: Black sesame seeds, black cloth, or urad dal are associated with Shani Dev. Donating them is believed to reduce the malefic effects of Saturn and bring stability.
- Feed crows: Crows are symbolically linked to ancestors in Vedic traditions. Feeding them is considered a way of offering respect and seeking ancestral blessings.
- Offer milk and water on a Shivling: Praying to Lord Shiva by offering raw milk and water on a Shivling is believed to purify the mind and invite divine grace.
- Light a diya with camphor and cloves: In the evening, lighting a diya with camphor and cloves can help cleanse your home of negative energy and create a calm, peaceful atmosphere.
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Things to avoid
- Avoid cutting hair or nails: It is considered inauspicious to cut hair, nails, or shave on Amavasya, as per traditional beliefs.
- Do not sleep during sunset: Sunset is seen as a sensitive transition period. Sleeping at this time is believed to disrupt your energy flow.
- Postpone new beginnings: Avoid starting new business ventures, investments, or signing important contracts. This phase is better suited to reflection than to action.
- Stay mindful of your emotions: Avoid anger, jealousy, arguments, and negativity. Emotions are believed to be more intense and influential during this time.
- Avoid isolated places at night: Unless required for rituals, it is best to stay away from cremation grounds or deserted areas, especially after dark.
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Things to avoid
- Avoid cutting hair or nails: It is considered inauspicious to cut hair, nails, or shave on Amavasya, as per traditional beliefs.
- Do not sleep during sunset: Sunset is seen as a sensitive transition period. Sleeping at this time is believed to disrupt your energy flow.
- Postpone new beginnings: Avoid starting new business ventures, investments, or signing important contracts. This phase is better suited to reflection than to action.
- Stay mindful of your emotions: Avoid anger, jealousy, arguments, and negativity. Emotions are believed to be more intense and influential during this time.
- Avoid isolated places at night: Unless required for rituals, it is best to stay away from cremation grounds or deserted areas, especially after dark.
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Disclaimer: Astrology is a belief-based system. It is not science, so readers are advised to consult a professional for detailed readings.