Fasting has gained massive popularity in recent years. However, it has been part of the spiritual practices typical for all major religions for thousands of years. In this article, we want to explore the essence of the Christian lent and the benefits of following this tradition.
What Is Easter Lent
Lent is a Christian tradition. It represents the period of time, during which Jesus Christ was in the wilderness and prepared to begin his ministry. Therefore, during lent people abstain from certain foods and give up certain luxuries. You may ask yourself: “Is lent over on good Friday?” So, let us clarify that lent covers the 40-day period before Easter that begins on Ash Wednesday and ends approximately six weeks later, right before Easter Sunday.
Health Benefits of Getting Full Fast
Scientists have found that fasting is important for detoxifying and cleansing the body. It decreases the levels of bad cholesterol and improves conditions like blood pressure, insulin sensitivity and heart problems.
Other benefits of lent and fasting include an increase in energy levels, physical lightness and weight loss. This has to do with the fact that fasting has positive effects on hormones and fat metabolism.
What Else You Can Learn from Fasting Time
In most cases, lent is good for health. Yet, there are various other positive effects. On the one hand, it can help you exercise self-control and control excesses of life. As a result of this, you may notice that the longest fast is actually the period of time when you save a lot of time and money.
On top of that, fasting can help you get to know yourself better, develop deeper empathy for others and learn humility. At the end of the day, it is not easy to battle controlling influences in our lives. Yet, it is enlightening to gain a deeper understanding of the difference between needs, wants and addictions.
How to Fast the Right Way
It can be hard to observe a period of restraints around certain foods. We know that from experience. Therefore, we have a few practical tips before you join the Easter lent or any other fast.
First, make sure you prepare yourself mentally and figure out why you are willing to observe a fast. Second, it is important to eat smaller meals throughout the day before fasting. If you overeat during the last meal, you will get hungry faster. Third, eat light, easily digestible foods during the fast and avoid fatty foods after you complete it. Last, but not least, make sure you drink enough water during the lent.
To sum up, there are various reasons for and benefits of taking part in a lent. Some people choose to do so for religious purposes. Others simply want to take care of their health. Naturally enough there are also enthusiasts who are eager to challenge themselves and see if they can do it. To make sure fasting will be healthy for you, listen to your body and consult your physician if necessary.
