Almost all medical science in the world acknowledges the therapeutic benefits of fasting.
the body to rejuvenate its self-healing capabilities. Many western healers have opined “fasting is the greatest remedy, the physician within.” Viki Shah speaks to the experts at Ayurveda by Giardino – Giardino Hotel Group to know more.
Fasting is recommended in almost all religions as a means of spiritual purification. In medical terms, the word ‘fasting’ can be defined as “voluntary abstinence from consuming food for varying lengths of time.” Fasting is used as a therapy for several medical conditions. The primary effect of fasting begins with changes to the body’s metabolic system. The most recent research suggests practicing intermittent fasting; this involves a full-day fast, one or two days of the week.
Ayurveda has catalogued and elaborated upon these benefits exhaustively as one among the LANGHANA therapy. The fasting method must be decided according to body constitution. Fasting plays a key role in ensuring the efficacy and success of Ayurveda detoxification therapy (Panchakarma treatments). ‘In Ayurveda by Giardino, we offer Panchakarma therapy with optimal food choice, authentic treatments and supportive practices like Yoga, Pranayama & Meditation. Once we bring order to the physiology of the body and mind called Doshas, it will ultimately bring clarity and health of the structure’ . Most of the interventions of Ayurveda let the body and mind to heal by itself. It gives a feeling of rest and pause to the Srothas or channels inside ,and any kind of indigestion happened as a result of our present dynamic lifestye is removed.
Ayurveda advises to start with easy to digest food( Steamed / completely cooked/grilled/ more fluid) after fasting. Too much fried and oily food just after fasting will definitely destroy the good benefits of the process.Food is really important during fasting as it helps to continue the fasting next day . To avoid Constipation and achieving a consistent energy supply , high fibre content vegetables, fruits and dairy products will help. Dates are excellent source of energy and minerals which is good for muscles and nerves. Like Silence, fasting offers a deeper insight into ourselves, and takes us to the source of our true nourishment.
Fasting promotes the production of growth hormones that encourage the breakdown of fatty tissues—causing the body to use fat as an energy source. Growth hormones also promote the regenerative mechanisms that repair and heal. With fasting, resting calorie burning speeds up and the production of neurotransmitter norepinephrine elevates; these contribute to an increase in metabolic activity.
A healthy fasting leads to a feeling of lightness in the body, clarity in the mind, and increased energy. It helps to regularize bowel movement and relieve constipation. Clean tongue and fresh breath indicate completion of detoxification process during fasting. It is very important to stay calm during fasting. Texts of Ayurveda strictly recommend avoiding physical exertion and mental stress during fasting. Ayurveda encourages fasting, but favours consistent, short fasts such as skipping dinner once a week or fasting for a few days each month .Over & long-term fasting can deplete vital tissue and increase, not decrease, imbalances that lead to disease if not taken care by optimal lifestyle and food recommendations.
Written by: Viki Shah
Source: Ayurveda by Giardino, Giardino Hotel Group.