Navratri Fasting – A Scientific Method for Purifying the Body
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Jawahar Mishra
Spiritual scientist and naturopathy expert
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Navratri, a nine-day Goddess Durga puja festival, is celebrated every year throughout India . Many people fast during this time, but have you ever considered how your body changes when you fast for nine days? You’ll be surprised to learn that it directly impacts not only your mind but also your body’s internal functions.
Both science and Ayurveda believe that fasting is not just a matter of faith, but also a powerful way to purify the body (Navratri Fasting Benefits). Let’s explore the effects of a nine-day fast on your body.
Effects of a nine-day fast on the body
Helps in weight loss
During fasting, you consume fewer calories, which causes your body to use previously stored fat for energy. This is a natural process for weight loss. When you avoid grains and fried foods, your body doesn’t receive unnecessary calories. This improves your metabolism and helps control your weight.
Digestion gets relief
On normal days, our digestive system works continuously. Fasting gives it a break. This cleanses the intestines and reduces digestive problems, such as acidity and indigestion. When the body has to work less to digest food, it can focus its energy on internal cleansing and repair, a process known as autophagy in scientific terms.
Stress is also reduced
Fasting has not only physical effects but also mental ones. It helps calm the mind. Fasting reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol. It also increases serotonin production, making your mind feel calm and positive. This 9-day discipline teaches you self-control.
Detoxifies the body
During fasting, toxins accumulated in the body are released. This is a natural detoxification process. Consuming fruits, water, and light meals helps flush out impurities from within. This also makes your skin glow and makes you feel refreshed from within.
Immunity Improvements
Regular fasting improves the body’s immunity. When the body has to focus less on digestion, it conserves its energy to fight diseases. This strengthens cells and increases the ability to fight diseases, making you less likely to fall ill.
Take these precautions during fasting
Hydration is important: Drink water, coconut water, lemonade, and fruit juices during fasting to avoid dehydration.
Choose the right food: Don’t rely solely on sago and potatoes. Choose nutritious options like water chestnut flour, buckwheat flour, fruits, yogurt, and lotus seeds.
Don’t break your fast suddenly: Avoid heavy or fried foods immediately after breaking your fast. Return to your normal diet gradually. Stick to light and easily digestible foods initially.
