Fasting, a source of power

All traditions advocate fasting as a form of purification and meditation. It is the simplest, most natural and oldest known way of renewing old reserves of energy, burning waste and stimulating the unsupected power of new energy. The important thing is to fast intelligently and in moderation.

Here are a few rules for a one-day fast:

·                                                       Eat a very light supper before going to bed the night before: broth or soup, salad, fruit (an apple);

·                                                         Do not eat from when you wake up the next morning until the same time on the day after your fast;

·                                                         Drink lots of hot or cold water. Don’t drink stimulants such as tea of coffee. If you feel weak, drink unsweetened thyme and sage teas;

·                                                         Take at least one long walk, in the countryside if possible;

·                                                         Read texts that stimulate inner reflection: sacred texts, scholars’ memoirs, philosophy or poetry;

·                                                         Avoid all major effort, noise and agitation;

·                                                         Break your fast with ordinary or herbal tea, a yoghurt, a piece of fruit, a small piece of bread and butter. No more. Eat more later, but avoid sauces, cream, alcohol and heavy meals.

Perform this type of fast on a regular basis (ideally once every 10 days). You can then follow the same programme for a two- or three-day fast. In this way, your body will be cleansed of its toxins and your mind of its pollution. It is like drinking at the Fountain of Youth!