„Fasting is as old as the peoples of the world“, wrote Otto Buchinger in 1935 in his book „Therapeutic Fasting“, taking into account the three dimensions of the human being (medical, psychosocial and spiritual). Buchinger fasting using special fasting drinks (water, tea, vegetable broth, fruit or vegetable juices and honey) is one of the most frequently used fasting methods today.
In the guidelines for fasting therapy of the Ärztegesellschaft Heilfasten & Ernährung e.V., fasting is defined as „voluntary abstinence from solid food and stimulants for a limited period of time“. The prerequisite for this is
- „a sufficient (at least 2.5 litres/day) calorie-free fluid intake (mineral water, tea) as well as natural liquids such as vegetable broth, fruit and vegetable juices and honey, max. 2,100 KJ (approx. 500 kcal)/day,
- the promotion of excretory processes via the intestines, liver, kidneys, lungs and skin,
- achieving a balance between movement and rest and
- a careful dietary structure and guidance towards a healthier lifestyle.“
The offers range from fasting cures in specialised clinics and health hotels to fasting hikes and stays in monasteries to fasting at home on your own.
What does Ayurveda say about therapeutic fasting and what should you pay particular attention to?
The fact is:
Fasting is called Langhana in Ayurveda and is one of the tissue-reducing therapeutic measures. These are mainly used to treat fullness syndromes such as obesity, water and mucus retention as well as digestive and metabolic disorders.
Kapha constitutions and people with Agni deficiency in particular can benefit from this. However, Ayurveda advises against such reduction measures for people with high Vata, as they can contribute to physical and mental weakening.
The digestive and body fire Agni burns food into energy. Our food can be compared to firewood in a fire - the smaller and drier the wood, the stronger the flame. The larger and moister the wood, the weaker the flame. If the wood is burnt and is not replenished, the flame goes out.
Prolonged zero fasting therefore weakens Agni and is not compatible with Ayurvedic guidelines. Short-term fasting over 1-3 days with hot water and ginger tea, on the other hand, can be used Ayurvedically to reduce ama (digestive residues).
Conclusion:
Not all fasts are the same - Ayurvedic fasting always takes into account the physical status of Agni, Dosha, Dhatu (tissue), Mala (excretion) and Srotas (circulation) as well as the mental state of the fasting person and is customised.
Liquid food in the form of soup combined with hot drinks relieves digestion and metabolism without weakening Agni. The soups can be composed of vegetables, mung dal and light cereals as required.
Have your personalised Ayurvedic fasting cure individually planned by an experienced therapist and enjoy the results of a cleansed body, clarified mind and increased energy levels.
With best wishes for your health,
Ralph Steuernagel
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