Exploring the Physical and Spiritual Rewards of Fasting
Today I would like to speak about the benefits of fasting and if you read until the end I will tell you the most underestimated but most important benefit of all.
So when you eat, you body gets immediately to work and starts processing that food and its nutrients. Most of these processes are completed by the stomach and the small intestine. In most cultures, especially western cultures, we are taught to eat 3 times a day. Although this in itself is not a bad thing, sometimes the body does need a break from the traditional meal schedule…Which is what fasting is all about….
Fasting does a few things….
Fasting allows the body to rid itself of toxins that it has been accumulating for months, sometimes even years.
If fasting is done for at least 24 hours, most likely the body will begin a process called ketosis. This process will allow the body to start using any fat stored in the body as its fuel source, which also releases ketones into the body.
So why is all this important?
First of all, when you lose fat you start lose unwanted weight. The first bit of fat that usually goes is belly fat. Not only that but you also start feeling lighter mentally as well. You are able to better focus on daily everyday tasks. Overall, you feel this new boost of energy.
But as promised, here is the most important benefit of fasting….
The most important benefit of fasting, is it helps you spiritually.
When you fast, since you are starving your body of its main fuel source… food. You are training your body to not give in to whatever it desires at a whim. It allows you to empathize more with other people’s needs. It allows you to make informed decisions instead of impulsive decisions. It allows us to connect a lot better with our creator God.
There is not just one type of fast: there are water fasts (where you abstain from all food, just water) or there are partial fasts like the Daniel Fast (basically a very strict vegan diet).
The length of the fast and what type of fast to do should be different for everyone (if in doubt consult with your doctor and/or pray about it)
I know that fasting from time to time has helped me tremendously in my life in every way. Sometimes we are so busy that we forget that sometimes we need to slow down and do a reboot.
Fasting more than anything is a reboot for the body, mind, and soul.
I hope this bless everyone of you so can live and feel better each and every day.