When you have access to everything you need, it’s easy to forget what it means to go without. But according to some philosophies, going without might be good for you from time to time. People are adopting the practice of fasting from food with the hope of reaping health benefits, while others are fasting from social media or even in-person socializing with the hope of giving themselves a mental-emotional recharge.
Fasting from Food…
Fasting from food is hardly a new practice—in fact, it’s how our ancestors survived. Johns Hopkins Medicine explains that human beings evolved to survive for extended periods of time without food, sometimes even days at a time. For people living in the 21st century, to go a few hours isn’t something that’s going to hurt them.
In fact, it might actually help them, according to studies published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Research shows that fasting can potentially provide more mental and physical energy, improve your blood pressure, lower your heart rate, and reduce your risk of disease. People who fast for spiritual or religious reasons often find that going without food makes them appreciate it more when they finally do sit down to eat. People who are fasting responsibly recognize that because they are limiting the quantity of their food, the quality of their food matters even more, thus compelling them to choose foods for nourishment rather than for pleasure.
Fasting can be done several different ways, the most popular today being a practice known as intermittent fasting, in which a person fasts for several hours every day and eats only during a designated period of time, usually six to eight hours per 24-hour period. However, other methods of fasting include eating regularly several days a week and then having only one meal on designated days, or alternating a day of eating three to five meals with a day of eating nothing at all. Some people will likely find that fasting causes fatigue and mood swings at first, but these symptoms go away after their body adjusts.
It’s important to note that fasting from food isn’t a healthy practice for everyone. Children, pregnant women, diabetics, and anyone with a history of an eating disorder should not engage in fasting. Doctors further emphasize that fasting as a weight management option isn’t healthy or realistic, because fasting might not be a sustainable lifestyle for everyone, meaning people who lose weight through fasting will gain it back once they stop.
…And Other Types of Fasts
Fasting from food isn’t the only type of fasting that could help you recharge. Many people find that unplugging from electronic devices from time to time—whether it’s just for a few hours or even for several days—has positive effects for them. Surveys vary, but most show the average American spends between two and three hours a day on social media (and about the same amount of time watching TV). About 80 percent of smartphone users say they check their phone within 15 minutes of waking up and within 15 minutes of going to sleep at night.
While social media is a great way of connecting with others, it can also be a drain on mental energy. Similarly, television can be a source of entertainment, but when it becomes addicting or emotionally overwhelming, it’s best to hit the off button and find another way to pass the time. Individuals who do a “fast” from media often report improved mood, more confidence, and better sleep. They are also more likely to spend time outdoors and get sufficient physical activity.
And if you’re somebody who feels overwhelmed by in-person socializing, there’s nothing wrong with taking breaks to just enjoy the company of yourself. People who do a complete social fast often experience less anxiety and find a renewed interest in others when they return to socializing, ultimately becoming more present and attentive.
