If you have begun to get serious about your yoga practice, you may have heard about the yoga way of eating and fasting. Yogis choose to fast for physical and spiritual reasons. People practicing a spiritual yoga practice generally choose to fast as part of their religious beliefs, just like some Christians fast for religious reasons.
In addition, fasting offers physical benefits. Especially when your diet has not been healthy, fasting allows the digestive system to heal. Fasting helps to get rid of toxins from unhealthy foods or overindulgence. For this reason, fasting is a part of most detox regimens.
There are mental benefits to fasting as well. People often report greater mental clarity, focus, and concentration. For some people, they feel more energetic after fasting. As the toxins are removed from the body, you may feel less sluggish, lighter and healthier.
Fasting isn’t just about skipping meals. There is a safe way to fast that is beneficial to the body and some things to consider to avoid negative results. If you have never fasted before, don’t try to jump into a long fast. One day is plenty for the first time.
The level of difficulty with a one day fast varies, depending on the person. People who eat several times a day may find that skipping all food is too hard. If a full day is too much or if you feel sick when fasting, try eating just one light meal in the middle of the day.
Fasting does not mean abstaining from food and drink. While you are fasting, you should drink water and fruit or vegetable juice, depending on the type of fasting you are doing.
There are some medical reasons to avoid fasting. For example, diabetics and people taking certain medications are not advised to try fasting. If you have any health condition or take medication, check with your doctor before you try fasting.
Whether or not you have a health condition, if you are feeling very sick or weak, have headaches, mood changes or other physical symptoms; eat a light meal or snack. Sip a glass of juice slowly or have a little soup and your symptoms will likely resolve.
Fasting is something that takes practice for many people. Take it slow and use the method that works best for you. You may find that eating one light meal will help prepare you for a full day fast. After a few times fasting for a single day, you may decide you are ready to try fasting for a few days.