Begin the fast on the evening before Shivaratri or early on the day itself, as per your tradition
Take a bath and wear clean clothes
Set a sankalpa, or clear intention, to observe the fast with devotion
Avoid grains, cereals, pulses, meat, eggs, alcohol, and tobacco
Avoid onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian food
Eat only one sattvic meal if following a partial fast
If observing a strict fast, consume only water or milk
Drink water, milk, or fruit juice as allowed by your practice
Eat fruits, nuts, and fasting-approved foods if permitted
Spend the day in prayer, chanting, meditation, and temple worship
Read or listen to Shiva-related scriptures and hymns
Stay awake at night if observing jagaran
Break the fast the next day after morning पूजा or after the prescribed time
Eat a light, simple meal when ending the fast
Follow your family, regional, or temple tradition if it differs
Consult a doctor before fasting if you are pregnant, ill, elderly, diabetic, or on medication