Fasting, a practice embraced by numerous religions worldwide, holds significance not only for spiritual reasons but also for its surprising health benefits. From Hindus to Christians, fasting rituals are observed with varying customs and beliefs, emphasising self-discipline and connection with the divine.
Sometimes, even people who are not religious practice fasting in the name of detoxification. Fasting is seen as a form of spiritual discipline that promotes self-control and connection with the divine.
Fasting observed by Hindus: Fasting is a common practice undertaken on various occasions throughout the year, ranging from the auspicious nine-day Navratri fasts to the Ekadesi fasts. Fasting helps purify the body and mind. It is believed to help one focus on the spiritual journey and have a deeper connection with the divine.
Fasting followed by Christians: Christians usually fast for 40 days before Easter, during Lent and avoid certain foods and activities during this time. They see this as a small sacrifice to God. In many Christian communities, people observe fasts on other days and donate money and food to the poor.
Islamic fasting: Muslims usually fast during the month of Ramadan and is obligatory for all adult Muslims. Sick persons, pregnant women, lactating mothers, those on journeys or menstruating women are exempted from this. Abstain from food, drink, smoking and marriage during the Ramadan fast between sunrise and sunset.
Across religions, fasting is perceived as a ritual for cleansing the body and soul, promoting self-control and creating an environment conducive to prayer and meditation. Although fasting is observed for spiritual reasons, a good deed is done by people abstaining from food and drink and donating it to the poor. So, fasting helps people in many ways. It provides an opportunity to experience hunger and understand the difficulties it can cause.
Fasting is also linked to many health benefits. It can boost brain function, improve insulin sensitivity and promote weight loss by tapping into fat stores for energy. It may lower inflammation, reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and type 2 diabetes, and support cellular repair processes.
