Chandraghanta-The Goddess of Courage and the science behind fasting.
Introduction: Who is Goddess Chandraghanta?
On the day of the third Navaratri, Goddess Chandraghanta is worshipped, symbolizing courage and justice. The name Chandraghanta is derived from two words:
    • Chandra (moon) – Represents peace and emotional stability
    • Ghanta (bell) – Signifies the power to remove negative forces
After Goddess Parvati married Lord Shiva, she wore a half-moon (Chandra) on her forehead in the shape of a bell (Ghanta), signifying her transformation into a fierce protector of the righteous. Worship of Chandraghanta banishes fear, negativity, and anxiety, imparting strength and confidence.

Iconography & Meaning
The Goddess Chandraghanta is depicted as:
    • Riding a lion – Symbolizing fearlessness and leadership
    • Ten arms holding weapons – Ready to destroy evil
    • A golden complexion – To indicate radiance and divine energy
    • A crescent moon on her forehead – To mean inner peace amidst battle
    • With Her third eye always open – Representing alertness and wisdom
Her form teaches us that true peace is not the absence of conflict but the courage to face challenges with confidence.

Spiritual Lessons from Chandraghanta
    1. Face challenges without fear- Just as she rides to war, so must we do in life, with courage and grit, against obstacles.
    2. Find peace amidst chaos- Like the moon on her forehead, a calm mind during distress facilitates wise decisions.
    3. Stay alert, and act- Her third eye open reminds that awareness and quick response can be the turning point in life.
Worshiping Chandraghanta clears away doubt and insecurity in devotees and makes them bold and confident.

Scientific Reasoning Behind Fasting on the Third Day of Navaratri
On this day, fasting increases energy, reduces stress, and enhances alertness, major traits that reflect the fierce and protective spirit of Chandraghanta. 

1️⃣ Increased Adrenaline for Strength & Alertness
Chandraghanta really symbolizes readiness for war. On a scientific note, fasting increases adrenaline and nor epinephrine that boost energy levels and concentration to energize us in facing stress and challenge. 

2️⃣ Stokes Digestive Strength (Agni Shakti)
After two days of light eating, the body begins to build more formidable digestion. The consumption of nuts, dairy, and light grains today replenishes the body while maintaining the status of inner purification. 

3️⃣ Emotional Balance
The cresent moon on Chandraghanta's forehead symbolizes emotional balance. Fasting aids in bringing down the levels of stress hormones, namely cortisol, thereby keeping the mind calm and focused. 

4️⃣ Resonates with the Manipura Chakra (Solar Plexus Chakra)
The third day of Navaratra is associated with Manipura, or Solar Plexus Chakra-the center of courage and decision-making. Consuming yellow foods such as bananas, turmeric, and honey further empowers this chakra, stimulating self-confidence and willpower.

Rituals & Worship on Day 3
    • Wake up early, take a bath and wear golden/yellow clothes (to symbolize strength).
    • Offer the goddess milk, kheer, yellow flowers, and jaggery.
    • Recite the mantra:
ॐ देवी चन्द्रघण्टायै नमः (Om Devi Chandraghantayai Namah)
    • Think about courage and vanquishing fears.
    • A complete sattvic diet that focus on enhancing mental and physical strength.

Conclusion
The third day of Navaratri stands for being courageous, powerful, and balanced. Worshipping Chandraghanta helps to cut through inner fears and self-doubts so that we can become confident and assertive.
Fasting on this day will purify the body while sharpening the mind for accessing inner strength and resilience. By comprehending the spiritual and scientific aspects of this day, we are prepared to challenge everything life throws our way with courage and clarity.