The significance of Yogini Ekadasi is mentioned in Brahma Vaivarta Purana. The Purana narrates the tale of a gardener named Hemamali who overcame a curse, which made him a leper, by observing a fast on Yogini Ekadasi. The gardener was instructed by Sage Markandeya about the Ekadashi.
A fast on this day is believed to help in washing away the sins committed and in leading a pious life.
Yogini Ekadashi Mantra
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय
The mantra should be chanted throughout the day.
Special Things to Do on Yogini Ekadasi
There is a belief that those who had cut trees will get relief from the sin by observing the ekadashi and by planting trees.
Donate anything that you can afford – food, water, clothes, books etc.
Jagran, or staying awake during the night. At night, reading stories of Vishnu, chanting prayers and listening to stories of Vishnu earns merit and it washes away sins. Chanting Vishnu Sahasranama, reading Srimad Bhagavata Purana and Gita is auspicious.
Performing puja at night after taking bath gets a person Akshaya Punya – Punya that never diminishes. The puja should be performed with Chandan, dhoop, lamp and Prasad or naivedya.