Intro:
“Hey friends, I’m Dinesh! Today, I’m bringing you the real secret to Right Way to True Fasting that can reduce diseases and bring amazing changes to your body in just 9 days. We often confuse fasting with eating sago vadas or peanut snacks, but that’s not the true way. Chalo, let’s uncover the power of real fasting together!”
What Is True Fasting?
Fasting is a practice deeply rooted in our culture, especially during festivals like Navratri or Ekadashi. However, many of us misunderstand it. We think eating sago (sabudana), sama rice, peanuts, sugar, or milk during a fast is fasting, but that’s actually a “vrat” or a sattvic diet—not true fasting. A vrat involves avoiding grains, onions, garlic, and non-vegetarian food while eating light, sattvic meals. True fasting, on the other hand, means giving your body a complete break from calories, consuming only water. This allows your body to burn stored fat for energy, triggering a process called autophagy—nature’s way of cleaning out damaged cells, much like sweeping and mopping your house!
I learned about true fasting from my grandfather, who swore by it during Navratri. He’d say, “Beta, fasting isn’t about eating fancy snacks—it’s about letting your body heal itself.” Inspired, I tried it, and the energy boost and lightness I felt were unbelievable. Let’s explore how to do it right and why it works wonders.
The Science Behind True Fasting
When you stop eating calories, your body shifts from using glucose (from food) to burning stored fat for energy. This process, known as ketosis, usually kicks in after 12-16 hours of fasting. Autophagy begins around the same time, where your cells recycle waste and repair themselves, boosting immunity and reducing inflammation. Studies show that intermittent fasting can lower the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and even some cancers by improving metabolic health.
Unlike a vrat, where you still consume 500-800 calories, true fasting keeps intake at zero calories (except water), maximizing these benefits. It’s not starvation—it’s a controlled reset for your body. My first 16-hour fast left me feeling lighter, and my digestion improved noticeably, proving the science behind it.
How to Practice True Fasting
True fasting is simple but requires preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started safely:
- Start Small: Begin with 6-8 hours of fasting (e.g., from 6 PM to 12 PM the next day), drinking only water. Eat a light, sattvic meal (like fruits or boiled veggies) before starting.
- Gradual Increase: Once comfortable, extend it to 12-16 hours (e.g., 6 PM to 10 AM). This is called intermittent fasting, a popular method worldwide.
- Navratri Style: During Navratri, you can eat a sattvic breakfast (e.g., fruits or kuttu atta roti) until 6 PM. From 6 PM to 6-7 AM the next day, stick to water only. Repeat for 9 days.
- Hydration is Key: Drink 2-3 liters of water daily to stay hydrated and support fat burning. Add a pinch of Himalayan pink salt if you feel weak (it replenishes electrolytes).
- Break the Fast Gently: After fasting, start with light foods like fruits, yogurt, or soup. Avoid heavy meals to prevent stomach upset.
Benefits of Right Way to True Fasting
- Fat Burning and Weight Loss: Without calories, your body taps into fat reserves, helping you shed extra kilos. I lost 2 kgs in my first 9-day cycle!
- Cellular Detox: Autophagy clears out damaged cells, reducing the risk of diseases and slowing aging.
- Improved Energy: Once your body adapts (after 2-3 days), you’ll feel more alert and active, as I did during my fasts.
- Better Digestion: A break from food gives your gut a chance to heal, easing bloating and acidity.
- Mental Clarity: Fasting reduces brain fog, enhancing focus—a benefit I noticed while working during my fast.
Common Misconceptions About Fasting
- Myth 1: Fasting Means Starvation: No, it’s a controlled process with water to support your body, not a lack of nourishment.
- Myth 2: You’ll Feel Weak: Initially, yes, but after adaptation, energy levels rise due to fat utilization.
- Myth 3: Vrat Equals Fasting: As explained, vrat involves food, while fasting is calorie-free.
My aunt once thought fasting meant eating sago all day and wondered why she didn’t feel healthier. When I explained the difference and guided her to try true fasting for 12 hours, she felt a noticeable difference in her energy and digestion!
Who Should Avoid True Fasting?
While beneficial, true fasting isn’t for everyone. Avoid it if you’re:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Under 18 or over 70 without medical advice
- Suffering from diabetes, low blood pressure, or chronic illnesses (consult a doctor first)
- Experiencing extreme stress or fatigue
Always listen to your body. If you feel dizzy or unwell, break the fast with a small snack and seek advice.
My 9-Day Fasting Journey
I decided to try true fasting during Navratri last year. The first day was tough—I felt hungry and irritable. But by day 3, after drinking plenty of water, I noticed my cravings reduced, and my energy stabilized. By day 7, I felt lighter (down 1.5 kgs) and more focused. On day 9, my skin looked clearer, and my family commented on my glow! It wasn’t easy, but the results were worth it. I now do 16-hour fasts twice a week, and it’s become a part of my routine.
Tips for a Successful Fast
- Plan Ahead: Eat a balanced meal (rich in protein and healthy fats) before starting.
- Stay Busy: Engage in light activities like reading or walking to distract from hunger.
- Sleep Well: Rest helps your body adjust to fasting.
- Support System: Share your goal with family—they can encourage you, as my wife did!
- Post-Fast Care: Avoid oily or sugary foods; opt for dals, veggies, and fruits.
Combining Fasting with Vrat
You don’t have to choose between fasting and vrat—combine them for maximum benefits. Eat sattvic meals (e.g., kuttu or singhara atta dishes) until 6 PM, then fast with water until the next morning. This balances spiritual practice with health goals. During Navratri, many in my community follow this hybrid approach and report feeling rejuvenated.
Long-Term Lifestyle
Make fasting a habit, not just a 9-day ritual. Start with 1-2 days a week (e.g., 16:8 fasting—16 hours fast, 8 hours eat) and increase as your body adapts. It’s a sustainable way to maintain health, unlike crash diets. My cousin, who fasts twice weekly, says it keeps his weight in check and boosts his immunity year-round.
Reader Engagement: Your Thoughts Matter
Did you know the difference between fasting and vrat before this? Have you tried true fasting, or are you planning to during Navratri? I’d love to hear your stories! One reader once shared how a 12-hour fast helped her manage acidity—your experiences can motivate others. Comment below or email me at dinesh.digitaldirection with your feedback or questions.
Spread the Wisdom
This knowledge is a gift for your health and soul. Share this article with friends and family, especially before Navratri, to help them fast the right way. Use #TrueFasting on social media to spread awareness and join a community of health enthusiasts.
Conclusion
True fasting is more than a tradition—it’s a powerful tool to detox your body, burn fat, and boost overall health in just 9 days. By drinking only water and avoiding calories, you unlock autophagy and energy you never knew you had. Start small, stay consistent, and watch the transformation. I’ve felt the difference, and I’m confident you will too. Try it this Navratri, share your journey, and let’s keep exploring healthy living together—until next time, stay healthy and happy!
Also Read : Boost Weak Hair Growth Twice as Fast with This Magical 7-Day Potli Remedy!