|
Correct way to break a fast (By Dr Keki Sidhwa) |
|
|
Dr Keki Sidhwa's recommendation for breaking a short fast.
The breaking of the fast and living after the fast are ten times more important than the fast itself. However much good the fast has accomplished, it will be nullified with wrong behaviour on your part,whilst breaking the fast and after the fast.
Repeat short fasts are not recommended, especially if the diet after the fast is conventional and full of “junk foods”.
To enhance the value of the fast it is advisable to adhere to a healthier eating pattern than before.
Short fasts can be broken by consuming either freshly extracted fruit and vegetable juices or by eating nothing but fresh fruits for a day or two after the fast. Then normal eating can be resumed.
Too quick a transition from fasting to full dietary can cause bouts of indigestion and other functional trouble.
Do not, repeat DO NOT, break your fast by consuming tea, coffee, hot chocolate, herb teas, alcohol, etc. Avoid concentrated solid food like nuts, cheese, bread, meat, etc., to break the fast. Skimmed milk, or live natural yoghurt watered down, can be used for breaking the fast, if juices or fresh fruit are unavailable.
Avoid eating heartily for at least twenty-four to forty-eight hours after breaking the fast.
Eat small quantities at a time. Chew well and do not gulp your food down. After the fast the body is in no shape for high jinks of that kind. If you do, you can suffer from a severe stomach cramp, gas and indigestion. Coax the digestive juices and enzymes to be secreted naturally and slowly rather than demand instant gratification.
Re activity also, take it easy. Do not rush into vigourous activity soon after the fast however more energetic you feel. Build up to your activities - be they athletic or sexual.
The vigour after the fast is your recompense for allowing the body a temporary respite from its hard work and daily grind.
May you enjoy you fast and may it add life to your years! Printed with kind permission from Dr Keki Sidhwa.
This excerpt was taken from The Quintessence of Natural Living. (page 422) Copyright 1994
| |
|
