Unlock the Secret to a Sharper Mind and Fit Body! Amavasyopasana

 The scientific significance of fasting and the Guru Baba Ashram.

"In 2002, when I began visiting Guru Baba's Ashram, I received specific instructions regarding fasting. Guru Baba directed me to observe Amavasyopasana, a practice tied to the lunar cycles of Amavasya (New Moon) and Pournami (Full Moon).

Amavasyopasana involves a rigorous fast, abstaining from both water and cooked food for two nights and one day, coinciding with the Amavasya and Pournami periods. The fast commences at 6:00 PM on the day preceding the New or Full Moon. Prior to 6:00 PM, normal dietary intake is permitted. Between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM, a gradual transition to the complete fast is recommended.

Following Guru Baba's guidelines, I adhered to this practice from 2002 until 2015. Based on my experience, I believe this form of fasting can be a powerful tool for individuals seeking significant life changes. Therefore, I wish to provide updated guidance for those interested in undertaking Amavasyopasana."

The Scientific Interest in Fasting:

The scientific interest in fasting has surged in recent years, with researchers exploring its profound effects on various biological processes. Here's a breakdown of the key areas of scientific importance:  

1. Metabolic Health:

• Insulin Sensitivity:
• Fasting can improve the body's response to insulin, helping to regulate blood sugar levels. This is particularly relevant for preventing and managing type 2 diabetes.  
• Lipid Metabolism:
• It can positively influence cholesterol and triglyceride levels, contributing to improved heart health.
• Weight Management:
• By creating a calorie deficit, fasting can be an effective strategy for weight loss.  
  

2. Cellular Repair and Longevity:

• Autophagy:
• This is a crucial cellular "clean-up" process where damaged cells are broken down and recycled. Fasting has been shown to enhance autophagy, which is linked to cellular health and potentially longevity.  
• Reduced Inflammation:
• Chronic inflammation is implicated in many diseases. Fasting may help reduce inflammatory markers, lowering the risk of these conditions.  

3. Cardiovascular Health:

• Blood Pressure:
• Studies suggest that fasting can contribute to lower blood pressure.  
• Heart Disease Risk Factors:
• Improvements in cholesterol, triglycerides, and other metabolic markers can reduce the overall risk of heart disease.

4. Brain Health:

• Neuroprotection:
• Research indicates that fasting may have neuroprotective effects, potentially reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.  
• Cognitive Function:
• Some studies have explored the potential of fasting to enhance cognitive function.  

5. Gut Health:

• Microbiome Modulation:
• Emerging research is investigating how fasting can influence the gut microbiome, which plays a critical role in overall health.  

Key Considerations:

• While the scientific evidence is promising, more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of fasting.
• It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any fasting regimen, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions.  
• It is very important to differentiate between intermittent fasting and dry fasting. Because of the dangers of dehydration, much of the research done is on intermittent fasting.

In essence, the scientific importance of fasting lies in its potential to positively influence a wide range of physiological processes, contributing to improved health and well-being.

 Different types of fasting

When discussing "hard fasting," it's important to distinguish between different types of fasting, particularly "dry fasting" versus other forms of intermittent fasting. Here's a breakdown of potential benefits and important considerations:

Understanding the Types of Fasting:

• Intermittent Fasting:
• This involves cycling between periods of eating and voluntary fasting.  
• It often allows for the consumption of water, and sometimes other calorie-free beverages, during the fasting period.  
• Examples include time-restricted feeding (e.g., 16/8 method) and alternate-day fasting.  
• Dry Fasting:
• This involves abstaining from both food and liquids. 

• This is considered a much more extreme form of fasting.

Potential Benefits of Fasting (Primarily Intermittent Fasting):

• Weight Loss:
• Fasting can create a calorie deficit, leading to weight loss.  
• Improved Blood Sugar Control:
• It may enhance insulin sensitivity, which can help regulate blood sugar levels.  
• Reduced Inflammation:
• Some studies suggest that fasting can lower markers of inflammation.  
• Heart Health:
• It may improve factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides.  
• Cellular Repair:
• Fasting can stimulate autophagy, a process in which cells remove damaged components.  

Important Considerations Regarding Dry Fasting:

• Dehydration Risk:
• Abstaining from fluids poses a significant risk of dehydration, which can have serious health consequences.  
• Limited Research:
• There is limited scientific research on the benefits and risks of dry fasting.
• Health Risks:
• Medical professionals generally advise against dry fasting due to the potential for severe health complications.  
• It is very important to consult your doctor before starting any type of fasting.

Key Takeaways:

• While intermittent fasting has shown potential health benefits, dry fasting carries significant risks.  
• Hydration is essential for overall health, and depriving the body of fluids can be dangerous.  
• It is very important to consult with a medical professional before starting any fasting regimen.
• The benefits that are seen from dry fasting, are very likely to be able to be gained from normal intermittent fasting, which is much safer.

I hope this helps.