Desired Offspring: Traditions, Science, and Spiritual Insights"

Desired Offspring: Traditions, Science, and Spiritual Insights" Desired Offspring: Based on Scriptures, Science, and Faith In the universe created by Lord Narayana, there are fixed rules and processes for the birth and development of every living being. In a woman's life, the menstrual cycle (Rajaswala state) is a crucial physiological and natural process through which her body undergoes purification and becomes ready for conception again. During this period, impure blood containing harmful elements and bacteria is expelled from the body.

Rajaswala Woman and Its Effects According to religious and traditional beliefs, the invisible energy and radiation (rays) emitted by a menstruating woman influence the surrounding environment. It has been observed that if a woman in this state touches the dough while rolling papads (thin crackers) or even looks at them from a distance, their color, taste, and quality are affected. Many people who believe in this phenomenon claim that the impact is so strong that the papads become unfit for consumption. Based on past experiences, the belief has prevailed that food touched by a menstruating woman may become contaminated. In some families, this is referred to as “impurity” or “evil eye.” A well-known medical experiment was conducted by a doctor who performed a “no-germs” lab test on milk and then had a menstruating woman touch it before testing it again. The results showed a 60% increase in bacterial presence, indicating that certain toxic elements are released from the body during menstruation. Similarly, a renowned cardiologist conducted an experiment on a patient with a pacemaker in his heart. When he was touched by a menstruating woman, his heart rate suddenly increased multiple times, putting him in a critical condition. It has also been observed that if a menstruating woman touches a small child, it can impact the child's health and energy levels, making the child sluggish, weak, or irritable. This is why it is suggested that women should observe complete rest, remain stress-free, and live simply for four days during menstruation. They should stay separately and avoid physical contact with others. Since there is a possibility of food getting contaminated even by sight or touch, it is advised that food prepared during this period should not be consumed by others. From a religious perspective, this period is also considered significant. Hindu scriptures instruct that a menstruating woman should refrain from entering temples, performing worship, participating in yajnas (sacred rituals), or engaging in religious activities for a week to maintain her mental and spiritual purity. Mental and Spiritual Influence on Childbirth According to scriptures, the imagination and thoughts of parents play a significant role in shaping the nature and personality of their offspring. It is believed that a menstruating woman's mind functions like a camera. After performing the purifying bath (Ritu-Snaan), if she mentally visualizes a particular man, his image gets imprinted on her mind. If conception occurs, the child’s appearance and attributes may be influenced accordingly. The Right Time for Conception and Its Effects Both scientific and religious texts emphasize the importance of timing in determining the gender of a child. If conception occurs on even-numbered (Yugma) lunar dates, the chances of having a male child are higher. If conception occurs on odd-numbered (Ayugma) lunar dates, a female child is more likely. The first week of the fertile period should be avoided, while the second week's even dates are considered the most favorable for conception. If conception takes place on the fourteenth night, the child is believed to be virtuous, fortunate, wealthy, and religious. The Secret to Having the Desired Offspring Scriptures state that a mother can shape her child's qualities according to her wishes. If she desires a specific type of offspring, her thoughts, values, and lifestyle before and during pregnancy significantly impact the child's attributes. Religious Remedies for Childbirth Many couples become disheartened due to infertility. However, Hinduism prescribes several remedies: Daily Recitation of Shri Ram Raksha Stotra: This hymn is considered highly effective in seeking Lord Rama’s blessings. Regular Chanting of Shri Shashthi Devi Stotra: Goddess Shashthi is regarded as the bestower of children. Praying to her regularly can help childless couples conceive. Special Fasts and Vows: Couples struggling with infertility can observe certain fasts such as Putrada Ekadashi, chanting of Santan Gopal Mantra, and practicing Garbhadhan Yoga (conception rituals). Conclusion Menstruation is not just a physiological process but is also considered significant from religious and social perspectives. During this time, certain changes occur in a woman's body that may affect the environment and people around her. Hence, she is advised to take special precautions. Additionally, childbirth and the characteristics of the offspring are deeply influenced by the thoughts, actions, and mental state of the parents. Couples desiring a particular type of child should not only conceive at the right time and in the right manner but should also adopt positive thoughts, religious practices, and pure conduct. If couples regularly recite the Ram Raksha Stotra and Shashthi Devi Stotra, their chances of experiencing the joy of parenthood may increase. Thus, by integrating the knowledge of scriptures, traditions, and science, we understand that parental mindset, timing, and spiritual practices have a profound impact on the birth and qualities of a child.