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Naturally, we are looking for some effective ways to solve these problems. One of the solutions towards this often elusive quality of life which we seek, might be intermittent fasting which is the practice of alternating periods of fasting and eating.
Much more than just our state of health, are more fundamental and spiritual questions relating to our existence: Who am I? What do I want? How do I want to live? Will I continue to live like this? Do I want to change? Where am I going? Do I need a turning point? What is the meaning of life?
"Fasten ― Zeit fur mich" (English title "Fasting: Time for me") written by Peter Muller has been recently translated into Korean. Peter Muller has dedicated himself for 25 years to become an expert in fasting as well as a guide to the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route of northern Spain.
This practical guide to the concept of fasting examines its true meaning and specifically that of intermittent fasting as a holistic way to health in the first part of the book. The second part of the book introduces the seven week program of fasting.
How to have time for myself while fasting spontaneously? How to take care of myself? Seven-week spiritual programs to fasting invite us to see the self behind the mask, to have time for the self, to purify the self, to have a silent moment, to use fasting as a source of energy, to meet God, and to be flexible.
The Bible introduces the meaning and the method of fasting in various ways. The main reasons for fasting in the Old Testament are atonement and supplication. Fasting can lead to inner repentance, change, and intimate communion with God, it can provide a deeper way of practicing "mercy" in life (Matthew 9:13; Tobit 4:8).
Such wise people as Pythagoras, Socrates and Plato believed that "fasting improves the brain." Hippocrates also mentioned the healing power of fasting. Thus, in our history of life, fasting has been a common topic among people who want to be healthier and wiser in the body, the mind, and the spirit.
Saint Athanasius of Alexandria (c. 295 ― 373 A.D.) said: "Fasting cures disease, removes the leftover moisture in the body, drives out the evil spirit and foolish thoughts, clears the mind and the heart, makes the body holy, and leads us to the presence of God."
Saint Benedictus of Nursia (c. 480 ― 547 A.D.) also talked about the importance of fasting in "Regular Benedicti" (The Rule of Saint Benedict).
Otto Buchinger (1878-1966) was the first German doctor who emphasized the healing power of fasting for health. Since then, many people have put into practice intermittent fasting.
As Moses fasted for 40 days on Mount Sinai, Jesus also fasted for 40 days in the desert before returning to normal life. Following the footsteps of their lives, we also make efforts to fast, especially during the Lenten season. We believe that fasting is a sign of breakthrough or a new beginning of life.
"When you keep quiet, fast often, pray, and stay calm, you will see who you are and the meaning of life."
The author is a member of the Daughters of St. Paul (fsp.pauline.or.kr.) living and giving the Good News to the world by means of social communication.
