Fasting

Fasting

Almost in all religions fasting is practiced. It enables us to utilize the vital energy, the indwelling power within us. Fasting purifies our body and it has a soothing effect on our minds. It gives rest for our digestive system and other systems. Fasting enhances the process of elimination of waste from our body. Some people drink only water during fasting. Some others take fruit juice. The duration of fasting varies from one time meal to even 41 days. Mahatma Gandhi used fasting also as a powerful political weapon. For him it was a moral weapon also. In some religions the practice of fasting goes to the extreme level. If not properly monitored, fasting may lead to serious consequences, even death. During fasting we should take complete rest. Even reading is not advised. When to stop fasting and how are equally important. Usually fasting is broken with lime juice etc.What happens during fasting? Actually vital energy that is stored in our body is used during this time; deposited fat is used. There is a false notion that a large quantity of food is required for our body daily. In fact, food is only one of the panchabhoo0das[five elements] of which body is made up of and which are needed for the proper maintenance of body.