Religious fasting is an important aspect in Hinduism. It is a practice where many do not consume food for a certain period of time. Do you know why fasting is emphasized in Hinduism?

Astro Ulagam tells you why!

Due to a busy lifestyle, many of us skip our meals, eat at irregular hours and consume food that is difficult to digest. This inevitably causes an imbalance to our digestive fire known as the Agni.

Overcooked or under-cooked food also creates body toxins referred to as Ama. An imbalanced Agni and the accumulated Ama in our digestive system is seen as the main cause of all diseases in Ayurveda.



This is why, Ayurveda recommends a regular and short term fasting. A regular and short fasting is believed to stimulate the Agni which will efficiently burn more of your body fuel, producing less Ama.

Fasting also allows the digestive organs to obtain some rest and cleanse all the body’s mechanism. This leads to the feeling of lightness in the body, clarity in the mind and an increase in energy.

One is said to obtain spiritual benefits through fasting. In Sanskrit, fasting is known as ‘upavaasa’. ‘Upa’ denotes to ‘’near and ‘Vaasa’’ means ‘to stay’’. Together, ‘upavaasa’ means staying near to the Lord. The mind, usually pre-occupied by the thought of food is now focused on the Lord. This makes one more alert and pure.



Other benefits of fasting discovered through scientific research are improved blood pressure; weight lost, improves eating pattern, speeds up metabolism and helps you to live longer.

Nevertheless, it is best to know your body type before you start fasting. Taking the wrong step will only create more problems instead of solving your health issues!

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