The True Purpose of Fasting

By Prachi and Anuprya
Pune, 10th April 2025: Have you ever wondered why we fast? Is it to save food or to create an appetite for feasting afterwards? Not quite. The answer lies in the Sanskrit word “Upavaasa,” which means “staying near the Lord.” It’s about attaining a close mental proximity with the divine.

The Connection Between Fasting and Food
We spend a significant amount of time and energy procuring, preparing, cooking, and digesting food. Certain food types can make our minds dull and agitated. By abstaining from food or eating simple, light meals, we conserve energy and allow our minds to become alert and pure. This self-imposed discipline is usually adhered to with joy.

The Benefits of Fasting
Fasting is not just about food; it’s about cleansing our bodies and minds. It’s a time for reflection, prayer, and seeking the divine. In many cultures, fasting is a way to demonstrate renunciation, asceticism, and devotion. For example, during Paryushana, Jains observe fasts of varying durations to cleanse their bodies and minds. In Christianity, fasting during Lent is a way to deepen one’s faith and prepare for Easter. In Judaism, the 40-day period from Elul to Yom Kippur is a time to renew one’s relationship with God. In Islam, fasting during Ramadan is a way to draw closer to Allah and increase one’s piety.

The Science Behind Fasting
Fasting can have a profound impact on our psychology and physiology. When we indulge our senses, they demand more. Taste is deeply intertwined with our perception, memory, and emotions. Dopamine, endorphins, oxytocin, and serotonin are the “feel-good” neurotransmitters that can make us repeat certain actions, including eating unhealthy foods. Fasting helps us cultivate control over our senses and sublimate our desires.

The Bhagavad Geeta’s Perspective
The Bhagavad Geeta urges us to eat appropriately – neither too little nor too much – and to consume simple, pure, and healthy food (a saatvik diet). Fasting helps us develop willpower, control our senses, and guide our minds to be poised and at peace.

The Benefits of Fasting in Modern Times
In today’s world, fasting has become a health craze. Studies have shown that intermittent fasting can improve blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight loss. Fasting can also purify the soul and strengthen one’s faith. It’s a time for reflection, prayer, and seeking the divine.

Conclusion
Fasting is not just about abstaining from food; it’s about resetting and reinvigorating our spirits. It’s a time to focus on what truly matters – our connection with the divine. By fasting with a noble goal in mind, we can cultivate control over our senses, develop willpower, and guide our minds to be poised and at peace.

(Authors : Prachi and Anuprya
Company: Pranverse
Links : https://youtube.com/@pranverse2808?si=tzjh7oJt3u7Y22Jd
What we do : We are into Reiki, Vastu and Astrology. We help people live their best possible lives personally and professionally.)