After bathing, sit before the Shiva Linga or image. Hold water in the right palm and take the vow of observing the Masik Shivaratri fast and worship.

Invoke Lord Shiva into the Linga or image by ringing the bell and chanting. Apply vibhuti/bhasma to the Linga. Offer flowers at the base.

Pour milk slowly over the Shiva Linga while chanting "Om Namah Shivaya." Follow with water (Ganga water if available). The milk should flow continuously over the Linga.

Offer trifoliate bilva leaves on the Shiva Linga with the smooth side facing up. Each leaf represents the three eyes of Shiva, the three gunas, or the trinity. Offer white flowers and dhatura alongside.

Chant "Om Namah Shivaya" 108 times using a Rudraksha mala. Sit with eyes closed, focused on Lord Shiva. This is the core mantra practice of Shivaratri.

Perform aarti with a ghee or camphor lamp, circling it clockwise before the Shiva Linga. Ring the bell throughout. Offer final prostration (sashtanga namaskar) and pray for Shiva's grace.