Fasting is an ancient practice revered across many cultures and religions, from Hinduism to Jainism and Islam. Its roots can be traced back to the spiritual teachings of saints and sages, who emphasized the importance of fasting for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Often referred to as “Space treatment” or “Treatment through Fasting,” this practice is not just about refraining from food but about restoring balance and reconnecting with the universe. In this blog, we will explore the true essence of fasting, its benefits, and how to incorporate it into your daily life for optimal health.
Fasting is an important practice in many religious traditions, especially in Hinduism. Festivals like Amavasya, Purnima, Ekadashi, Navratri, and Shivratri emphasize fasting as a way to cleanse the body and connect with the divine. The term “Upwaas” in Hindi, meaning “staying close to God,” symbolizes the spiritual aspect of fasting. During fasting, it is believed that our Vital Force, the energy within us, connects closely with the Ultimate Force of the universe, helping us restore balance and alignment with nature.
While fasting has spiritual roots, it also holds significant physical benefits. The process of fasting triggers the body’s natural detoxification mechanisms, allowing the system to eliminate accumulated toxins and rejuvenate itself.
Despite the many benefits of fasting, modern-day fasting practices often involve mistakes that do more harm than good. People commonly indulge in heavy, hard-to-digest foods like “kuttu ke aate ke pakore” or ghee-laden sweets, which contradict the purpose of fasting. These foods burden the digestive system, reducing the overall benefits of fasting.
True fasting should be about nourishing the body with easily digestible, natural foods like raw vegetables, fruits, and fresh juices. By consuming these, you provide the body with the necessary nutrients without overwhelming the digestive system, allowing the detox process to unfold naturally.
Navratri, one of the most widely observed festivals in India, is a perfect time for fasting. Held twice a year, it marks a change in seasons, providing the ideal environment for our bodies to cleanse themselves. During Navratri, many people experience mild symptoms like cold, fever, or a runny nose, which are signs of the body’s natural detoxification process.
Fasting during Navratri helps prepare the body to endure the upcoming summer or winter. The weather during Navratri is neither too hot nor too cold, making it the perfect time to cleanse the body. By following a mindful fasting practice during this period, you help your body eliminate toxins, rejuvenating it for the seasons ahead.
Fasting triggers a powerful detoxification process within the body. As you fast, the body’s Vital Force engages in cleaning the internal system, expelling toxins through sweat, urine, stool, and breath. This natural process is essential for rejuvenating the body, improving digestion, and enhancing overall vitality.
After fasting for even a short period, you may notice changes in your body, such as a coated tongue, yellowish urine, or an unpleasant odour in sweat. These signs indicate that your body is releasing accumulated toxins and undergoing a cleansing process. The act of fasting, therefore, aligns the body’s energies, removing the old and allowing the new to flourish.
A common barrier to fasting is the fear associated with it. Many people mistakenly associate fasting with starvation or weakness. However, fasting is not about depriving yourself of food; it’s about giving your body time to heal and detoxify. Nobody has ever died from fasting for one or two days, and when done correctly, fasting can provide immense benefits for both body and mind.
The key to fasting is to approach it with the right mindset: with peace, confidence, and a commitment to rejuvenating your body and spirit. Fasting done mindfully should leave you feeling energized, not weak or deprived.
While fasting is highly beneficial, long-term fasting is not recommended. Extended periods without food can cause unnecessary stress on both the mind and body, depleting the Vital Force rather than replenishing it. As per the teachings of Brahamleen Acharya Sheshadri Swaminathan Ji, prolonged fasting does not yield the desired benefits and can lead to more harm than good.
For most people, a short-term fast is ideal. It allows the body to reset, without overwhelming the system or depleting energy reserves. Long-term fasting should only be attempted under professional supervision.
There are several ways to approach fasting, depending on your health goals and condition. Let’s explore the three main types:
In the case of acute diseases like fever, cold, or digestive disturbances, a Complete Fast can significantly aid the healing process. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
This gradual approach helps the body heal without overwhelming the digestive system.
For chronic conditions like asthma, high blood pressure, or diabetes, Partial Fasting can be an excellent starting point. By consuming raw fruits, vegetables, and juices, you can help manage these conditions while allowing your body to heal. If acute symptoms arise, follow the Complete Fast guidelines until you feel better, then resume Partial Fasting.
Fasting is a powerful tool for detoxification, healing, and spiritual growth. By following ancient wisdom and aligning with the natural rhythms of our body, we can harness the full potential of fasting. It’s not about depriving yourself but about nurturing your body, mind, and soul. Whether you’re looking to detoxify, reconnect with your spiritual self, or heal from illness, fasting can be a transformative experience that brings balance and vitality back into your life.
