The Benefits of Yogic Fasting

In the yogic tradition there is a style of fasting that has spiritual, mental and physical benefits. This approach to fasting is called “upavasya”, which means “to remain near.” Near to what? To the divine entity. Ideally, during fasting, one allocates more time for meditation and other spiritual practices. So, this is the spiritual benefit.

There are specific days of the month on which upavasya should be observed — the 11th day after the full moon and the 11th day after the new moon. These days are called “ekadashi,” which means “eleven.” The significance of ekadashi is that it falls a couple of days before the new and full moons, which are times when the sun and moon align and exert greater gravitational influence on the liquid portion of the body. This increase in gravitational pull can create a pressure on the brain that imbalances the mind. When fasting is done, the size of the stomach shrinks, creating a sort of vacuum that reduces the pressure on the brain. This is the mental benefit of fasting.

When our bodies take a break from eating, there is an increase in metabolic activity that eliminates accumulated toxins from the body. (Sometimes the urine is quite dark.) Also, the visceral organs are given a rest which allows them to rejuvenate. These are the two main physical benefits of fasting.

Some other physical benefits that have been observed. Fasting, or willing abstinence of caloric intake, has really garnered solid scientific acceptance in the last decade. Fasting and intermittent fasting have been shown to improve cardiovascular and metabolic biomarkers similarly to a calorie restriction diet in people who are overweight, obese or have metabolic syndrome. 

 With the absence of carbohydrates, the body changes to using fats for metabolism.  Ketones are produced and the body enters a state of ketosis.  Ketosis has been associated with clarity of thinking, improved sleep, and has even been used to treat refractory epilepsy. 

 Many will want to still drink water when they fast.  And, if you have any pre-existing medical problems then you should consult your medical provider before embarking on fasting.  You may be surprised at the enthusiastic response.

 This article was written by Acharya Ravi and Acharya Giriisha in May 2023.