From Mahatma Gandhi to Narendra Modi, and many other spiritual propogators, fasting is a holistic process which when done correctly can uplift both your physical and mental health.
For spiritual & Mass leaders like Gandhiji fasting was a method of self-purification and a method to protest against injustice. Whereas for religious, wellness & health influencer Modi ji- it is more of a procedure to recharge oneself with new energy. However, both the leaders by their actions have shown people that fasting is not just an Indian tradition, but a means of practising self-discipline along with spiritual purification.
Those who follow PM Modi, vouch for the importance he gives to Divine Fasting. From his observance of an eleven-day strict fasting before the consecration ceremony at Ram Mandir, to his four decades-unbroken tradition of keeping a nine-day long fast on Navratri, fasting is a profound journey of cleansing, rejuvenation, and aligning with the body’s natural rhythms and promoting well-being
Fasting on religious occasions is quite common in our country and is in practice since times immemorial. Fasting means when one deliberately abstains from food/water or specific types of food for a defined period. Other than ethical, and religious reasons, nowadays, fasting practice is generally adopted for a healthy lifestyle.
Some relevant benefits of Fasting as per Ayurveda and science:
Ayurveda Benefits of Fasting:
- It allows the digestive system to rest to free up energy for healing and rejuvenation. Fasting promotes better digestion and absorption of nutrients. When the body is cleansed, the mind becomes calmer.
- Fasting rekindles the digestive fire (Agni). Improving Agni, detoxification, and enhancing the immune system, fasting helps eliminate toxins (ama) from the body.
- Ayurveda suggests that fasting can help balance the doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), leading to improved health and well-being.
- Fasting is thought to enhance mental clarity, improve sleep cycle, focus, and spiritual awareness.
Scientific Benefits of Fasting:
- Both fasting and intermittent fasting can result in calorie reduction, which may contribute to weight loss and other health benefits. Controlled fasting can aid in weight management by promoting fat metabolism and reducing excess weight.
- Fasting can improve Insulin Sensitivity, potentially reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes and improving blood sugar control.
- Fasting triggers autophagy, a process where cells remove damaged components, promoting cellular repair and longevity.
- Fasting offers protection against medical conditions like heart and neurodegenerative diseases.
- It helps lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and inflammation, contributing to better cardiovascular health.
