Fasting – Ayurvedic approach to detoxification
We’ve seen that Ayurveda focuses more on food intake and how it is utilized in the body, and finally, the way waste is eliminated from our bodies. The reasons behind each metabolic process can be explained within Ayurveda. However, this metabolic process requires to be re-energized.
There is a long-standing tradition of fasting in all homes.
What’s the reason for fasting?
How does fast feel?
When to do Fasting?
Then, Ayurveda answered these questions with precision.
In Ayurveda, to prevent any illness or to ensure the overall health of the human body, three fundamental notions that are Agni, Ojas and Ama are thought of as.
Agni references Fire and Jatharagni, which is the digestive fire. It also includes digestive enzymes.
Ama refers to waste, i.e., foods that are not processed and emotional reactions within the body.
Ojas is the purest form of energy produced after the complete digestion process.
As we discuss cleansing in Ayurveda, we’re talking about removing and loosening these toxins, also known as Ama, within the frame. The elimination of Ama is the first step in rehabilitation, although Ayurveda recognizes the importance of rejuvenating structures and getting them to equilibrium.
A common observation among Agni, Ama, and Ojas is that when Agni is in balance; Ama is lower, and, as a result, the immunity is balanced. Similar to If Agni has a low level, Ama is more, and Ojas is lower, which causes imbalance within the body. Therefore, we conclude that the cause of diseases is dependent on an imbalance of indigestion.
According to Ayurveda, If we choose to fast, we follow Pratyahara, which refers to ‘against what we consume.’ Fasting doesn’t mean you have to eat nothing, but rather, it’s about the consumption of liquids and foods that cleanse our body in lower amounts and the right items. According to Ayurveda, Fasting and Cleansing are two different things, based on the duration and the nature of the fast. In general, Fasting is only for a shorter period, and cleansing is for a longer time. When cleansing for longer durations, the mono-diet of Kitchari is suggested. It is also possible to opt for intermediate Fasting which cleanses the body regularly.
But why is it vital?
A lot of us are overloaded by nutrient-poor food that is not well-nourished. We consume packaged food items that are preservatives. The foods that we consume are made up of fungicides, pesticides, sugars, artificial fertilizers, etc. Ayurveda affirms that your body is what you eat, and these poor-quality foods can lead to diseases that result from frequently occurring health problems. Ama (toxins) are created more often when the Agni (the digesting fire) is not functioning correctly; Ama (toxins) are made more often. Ama is the main reason for all ailments and can also cause mood changes, bad breath, body odour, cravings, and an inability to move. If Ama is produced in a large amount and large quantities, it is absorbed into the bloodstream and can cause further issues. That’s why it is essential to purify Ama before it causes damage to the system.
Based on Ayurveda, the spring season is the ideal time to begin cleansing the body because the body is also in a state of cleansing during this time. When the temperature rises during the Spring season, the accumulation of Kapha in the body melts, and consequently, the body decides to get rid of the Kapha. Therefore, during this time, Panchakarma, along with Fasting, is suggested to purify the body completely.
Here are a few advantages of Fasting:
- The largest organ in the body, the digestive system, needs energy and rest.
- If digestion is not in a state of rest, Fasting can free up points that are helpful to healing.
- This energy freed up is utilized to boost Agni and reduce Ama and strengthen the immune system.
- The idea behind Fasting is an improved understanding of your body and mind.
- Fasting can boost immunity the same way that meditation improves brain function.
- Fasting can provide the nourishment required for the body to repair itself.
- Fasting helps the body get its natural glow.
- The overall energy level of the body is increased.
- The body is cleansed and revitalized.
The body removes any undigested food by excretion. We were sweating out waste through sweat glands and pores. However, the body requires extra assistance in removing the trash accumulated within the body throughout. Therefore, detoxification in the form of Fasting provides our bodies with an internal spring clean on a cell level.
Fasting can rid the pipes of mucus buildup, the waste of food, waste sludge, old faecal matter, and inorganic mineral deposits. It aids in resetting our system. Eat specific nutrition in mono-diet, liquids, or fruit is also essential.
In addition to the benefits of Fasting, significant ones are as follows:
- It helps restore the feeling of peace in your mind and the nervous system.
- It enhances spiritual, mental, and emotional well-being.
- Keeps the weight under control
- It supports a healthy sleep cycle.
- Encourage regular releases of Ama
- Make tissues to eat.
When you fast, and Ama is eliminated, The Tridosha – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha remain perfectly harmonious. When these Doshas are in harmony, the well-being and health of your body will be ensured.
Therefore, giving a quick break for the body is a way to cleanse the body from the organ to a cellular level and refresh the whole system.
