How to cross the threshold when entering the temple

The first question that comes to the mind of everyone who goes to temple is whether to step on the entrance or to cross it without stepping? Here's a detailed guide to the customs as to how to enter a temple.

Before going to the temple the devotees must wash their hands and feet at a nearby water tap. Usually temples keep a tap station near the entrance. Spray a little water on the head, especially after washing hands and feet.

Upon entering the temple, worship the temple tower and kalasam. Next you have to pay respect to the Dwarapalakar in the temple.

Before going to the main sanctorum at the temple one should bend down and touch the stairs with the fingers of the right hand and press the finger between the eyebrows. Doing so is believed stimulate the positive energies of the temple to act on our body through our feet as we enter the temple.

One must cross the doorstep to enter the temple. It is believed that going across the temple steps leaves all the worries and negative thoughts in our minds outside. That means we our problems behind.

So, what does it mean to step on the temple doorstep?

It is believed that if you step on the entrance, instead of crossing the stairs, one tends to take the problems in the mind into the temple.

The temple is full of magical sounds, chants and positive energy that heals us and aids in betterment. This simple gesture of crossing the entrance is a way to channelise that energy for achieving intended benefits.