Navratri Fasting And Its Benefits: Healing For The Mind And Body
Fasting is an integral aspect of this festival in India, making Navratri a process of detoxifying the body, mind, and soul. While for some people, fasting is done for religious reasons, there are also those who do it to cut back on unwanted calories and lose weight. As per studies, intermittent fasting can help regulate blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and insulin sensitivity. Longer periods of fasting, which lasts for 2 to 4 days or more is beneficial for rebooting the immune system, clearing out old immune cells, and regenerating new ones.
Fasting detoxifies the body. When we eat less, we must ensure that we follow certain things. Avoid cereals (you can take wheat grass juice); eating once if possible; and follow a Sattvik lifestyle. Replace wheat flour with Kuttu or Singhara flour; pulses with amaranth or Rajgiri; and rice with Samak rice. Here are some benefits that fasting can bring to your body and therefore, overall health.
Detoxifies the body
We consume a lot of toxins in various forms every day – right from the food we eat to the air we inhale. Fasting helps in flushing out these toxins that have accumulated in the tissues over time. The fresh and light food consumes also boosts immunity.
Better digestion and metabolism
Our digestive system is constantly at work. When we fast, this process gets a break and our system is able to rest. This further has a positive effect on our overall metabolism.
Calmer mind
Fasting boosts cognitive health and leads to a reduction in oxidative stress. This means a calmer mind and improved focus.
Reduction in inflammation
Although inflammation helps the body in fighting infections, increased amounts can cause several diseases including cancer and heart problems. People who fast experience a reduction in inflammation levels.
There are certain things one should keep in mind while fasting especially if you are someone with an underlying health condition.
· Plan your diet especially if you have medical conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Do not skip your medication schedule. Keep a healthy snack handy for those cravings.
· Keep yourself hydrated by drinking water, coconut water, green tea, buttermilk, and lime juice. Avoid aerated drinks.
· Avoid gorging on salty ‘snacks.’ Eat something that is boiled or roasted instead.
· Use rock salt in your food instead of usual salt as it helps in better mineral absorption. It is also beneficial for those who have high or low blood pressure.
· Eat lighter meals as these can aid digestion.
· For dessert, you can try eating dates or fruit yogurt. Also, add honey instead of sugar.
· Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables.
In conclusion
Navaratri comes twice a year in India and marks the time for cleansing of both mind and body. Scientific reasons aside, it is a way to become closer to the universal energy and attain spiritual peace. The auspicious environment heals us in more ways than one and helps us feel more connected with ourselves.
