Chatur-Maas should be observed by all sections of the population. It does not matter whether one is a grhastha or a sannyasi. The observance is obligatory for all asramas. The real purpose behind the vow taken during these four months is to minimize the quantity of sense gratification. This is not very difficult.

In the month of Sravana one should not eat sak, green leafy vegetables including spinach, in the month of Bhadra one should not eat yogurt, and in the month of Asvina one should not drink milk. One should not eat non-vegetarian food during the month of Kartika - Masur daal and Urad daal are also considered non-vegetarian. These two daals contain a great amount of protein, and food rich in protein is considered non-vegetarian. On the whole, during the four-month period of Chatur-Maas one should practice giving up all food intended for sense enjoyment.

According to Vedic culture, Chaturmasya is to be followed strictly by practicing many difficult austerities. For example, some sadhus eat only once a day. They place their food on the floor (usually unspiced kicchari), put their hands behind their backs and accept only what they can eat by once bending down. As soon as they sit up again, their meal is over.

1. Do not eat sak, green leafy vegetables including spinach
       during Sridhar Maas – Shravan Maas
2. Do not eat yogurt 
       during Hrisikes Maas – Bhadra Maas
3. Do not drink milk
       during Padmanabh Maas – Ashvin Maas

Chatur-Maas is not to be observed during the Purushottam Adhik Maas.

    Padmanabh Maas continues after the Purushottam Adhik Maas
    (and so the fasting from milk is applicable again)


4. Do not eat high protein foodstuffs such as masur daal and urad daal or soya during Damodar –Kartik Maas
   

Following steps one through four as above indicated gives us the opportunity to please the Acharyas. By pleasing the pure devotee Acharyas of the Supreme Lord, spiritual enlightenment is obtained. Simple and sublime.