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Physiology
of fast
There is nothing to lose in attempting a fast.
There is no failure, for even if you fail to achieve your stated goal, you will have learned and experienced much of value.
What is Fasting really? It is more than just not eating.
Fasting involves moving from external food, food, to internal nutrition, our reserves. We can compare this with a laptop, which can operate on AC power (external power) or thanks to its battery (internal reserves). Fasting is accompanied by autolysis or self-restoration: whatever is usable is used as fuel.
But, importantly, essential tissues are preserved (brain, tissue proteins). In a healthy adult measuring 1.70 m and weighing 70 kg, the reserves allow fasting safely up to 40 days. They consist of approximately 750 g of carbohydrates (sugars), 3 kg of proteins and especially 10 kg of lipids (fats). They are divided into 4 large “compartments” of reserves:
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the blood: glucose for 2 to 3 hours, lipids in the form of triglycerides.
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the liver: carbohydrates in the form of glycogen for approximately 24 hours.
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the adipocytes (fat cells): lipids in the form of triglycerides.
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the tissues and cells: muscles, damaged proteins, walls of used intestinal cells… constitute a reserve of proteins.
Fasting is a natural practice done to promote healing, to fortify the body and soul, not to tear them down. In the animal kingdom it happens on an instinctual level. While we humans usually have to make a greater effort, it is still a natural biological action. Eating 24/7 is not natural. Taking a break from food allows for a rebalancing within the body, and within our psyche, affecting also our sense of connection to the world of spirit.
What are the benefits of fasting? Hippocrates (400 BC) used to fast in order to mobilize the self-healing-forces of the body. "Our medicine should be our food but eating when we are sick is like we are feeding our disease." he says.
There are many benefits to fasting, as it has such widespread effects on our being as a whole. Not just our physical bodies are affected, but also our mental and emotional states, as well as our feeling of spiritual connection.
Fasting will:
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rest the digestive system
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allow for cleansing and detoxification of the body
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create a break in eating patterns and get rid of dependencies
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promote greater mental clarity
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lead to a feeling of physical lightness, increasing energy level
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promote an inner stillness, enhancing spiritual connection
Why exercise during fast?
Gandhi was the first to combine fasting and walking. For months he crossed his country, consuming only lemon water and honey.
Physical activity during fasting is a fundamental pillar according to Dr. Buchinger since it helps speeding up the process of eliminating toxins. Indeed, when the body is not in motion, the toxins circulate for a longer time in the body without being eliminated and can thus cause unpleasant symptoms such as headache, hunger, etc.
Hiking in the middle of nature, in refreshing places brings calm and serenity. These benefits will be further amplified if we focus on our movements, our feelings and our breathing. Therefore, walks are planned daily in the beautiful forest of The Ardennes.We will alternate conscious walking, contemplative hiking, sensitive Nordic walking and meditative breaks during walking times.
Most of the hikes are done from where we will be staying, to discover the nature of these wild places. Other walks in exceptional places of nature are planned, requiring short trips by car.
Other physical activities that promote the elimination of toxins and body balance are also offered such as: morning gymnastics to get the circulation started, Viniyoga, Cycling, relaxation courses. All of course, voluntarily, just as it fits your needs and mood.
No stress, because this is the last thing we need.