The Discipline of Fasting: A Spiritual Practice with Powerful Physical Health Benefits

So, here’s a thing about me: I’m a fan of all things that make you feel good, inside and out. We all know how much I love healthy food, good sleep, and moving my body. But lately, I’ve been thinking about something a little different that’s been a total game-changer for me: fasting.

Now, before you think I’ve gone totally extreme, hear me out! Fasting isn’t just a new health trend. It’s actually a super old-school spiritual practice with some seriously awesome physical benefits. It’s like a two-for-one deal for your mind, body, and soul.

Fasting: More Than Just a Diet Trend

You might hear a lot about “intermittent fasting” in the health world, and that’s great and all, but for me, the real magic of fasting started with my faith. It’s this powerful way to hit the pause button on your physical desires so you can lean in and listen to God.

Think about it:

• Jesus did it for 40 days. (Yikes, I can’t even imagine!)
• Daniel did a fast to seek wisdom.

By choosing to set aside food, you’re basically saying, “Hey, God, you’re more important than this pizza right now.” It’s an act of humility and a way to focus your heart on what truly matters.

The Unexpected Perk: All the Health Stuff!

Okay, so the spiritual part is amazing, but what’s in it for your body? Turns out, when you give your digestive system a little break, some incredible things happen!

• Your Metabolism Gets a Reboot. Fasting can help your body get better at using energy, which is a big plus if you’re trying to manage your weight or just feel more energized throughout the day.
• Your Cells Do a Spring Cleaning. This is the coolest part! During a fast, your body starts a process called “autophagy.” It’s like your cells are hitting the “clean house” button, getting rid of all the old, junky stuff and making way for new, healthy cells. How cool is that?
• Calmness. Fasting can help lower inflammation and even benefit your brain health. It’s like giving your body a deep breath from the inside out.

Ready to Try It? Here’s My Simple Plan

If you’re curious about giving this a try, please be smart about it! Always chat with your doctor first, especially if you have any health concerns.

My advice? Don’t go straight for a 40-day fast like Jesus. We’re not trying to be superheroes here.

• Start Small: Maybe skip that late-night snack or push breakfast back a little. A simple 12-16 hour fast overnight is a great way to start.
• Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate! This is non-negotiable. I keep a giant water bottle with me at all times.
• Listen to Your Body: If you feel lightheaded or super drained, it’s okay to stop. This is a journey, not a race.

My Favorite Tools to Support Your Fasting Journey

To help you on this adventure, I’ve found a few things that have made a huge difference for me.

• For the Soul: Having a good devotional or prayer journal can be a total game-changer. A little notebook to write down your thoughts and prayers during your fast can keep you super focused. I personally have this Prayer Journal that I got from BrainDoodleBooks. (You should definitely check them out! They have so many fun and creative journals and activity books. I’m a huge fan!)
  
• For the Body: A beautiful water bottle is a must-have to remind you to drink up. And if you want to dive deeper into the science, there are some great guides out there. I have the A Complete Guide to Biblical Fasting: Master the Habit that Provokes God’s Favor from Amazon. .

Fasting has shown me that true health isn’t just about what we put into our bodies, but also about what we intentionally give up. It’s an act of love for your soul and a gift to your body.

What are your thoughts on fasting? Have you ever tried it? Let me know in the comments below!