Looking for a new way to cleanse and reset your mind, body, and soul? Have you ever considered incorporating fasting into your wellness routine? If so, Japanese-style fasting might just be the perfect healing ritual for you! In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits and different types of traditional Japanese seasonal cleansing rituals, from intermittent fasting to prolonged water-only fasting, their history in Japan for centuries, and practical tips for practice safely. Ready to get started? Let’s go !
In his book The Japanese Art of Fasting, Dr. Yoshinori Nagumo explains the principle of Japanese fasting.
This fundamental concept underlies the traditional practice of fasting in Japan, namely the establishment of a state of balance between body and mind. Fasting – or abstaining from food for a period of time – is thought to help restore physical and mental balance by helping to reduce stress, tension and fatigue. The idea is that when we fast, our body can get rid of excess toxins, which can lead to better overall health. Additionally, fasting can help increase the production of hormones like serotonin and melatonin, which can help improve mood and sleep quality.
The Japanese take their fast very seriously; it is often practiced as part of a spiritual ritual or as an essential part of training in discipline and restraint. Fasting can also be used therapeutically to help manage chronic conditions like diabetes or digestive issues. Traditional Japanese fasting generally focuses on cleansing the body with nutritious whole foods such as vegetables, fruits, nuts, and grains during periods of abstinence from meat or other animal products. Also, various herbs and spices are often added to enhance the detox process. In some cases, water is also included in this practice – either by increasing the amounts consumed throughout the day, or by a dry fast where no liquid is ingested for several days in a row.
Japanese fasting: a practice with real benefits for health and well-being.
Within the context of traditional Japanese culture, Dr. Nagumo uncovers the benefits of fasting and examines how modern science is beginning to catch up with ancient wisdom. He claims that fasting can help people:
- Boost energy.
- Improve concentration.
- Increase creativity.
- Promote weight loss.
- Detoxify the body.
- Strengthen the immune system.
- Boost metabolic health.
- Reduce inflammation.
- Delay aging.
In Japan, it is common to practice short-term intermittent fasting periodically throughout the year, rather than engaging in periods of prolonged fasting. Dr. Nagumo believes that these shorter, but more frequent periods are best for obtaining optimal health benefits.
Dr. Nagumo reveals the physiological and psychological aspects of Japanese fasting.
In his book, Dr. Nagumo presents numerous case studies showing how men and women have experienced tangible improvements in their physical health after regularly practicing this type of fasting regimen. He cites examples such as improved glucose levels and lowered cholesterol levels, as well as reports from his patients of increased energy, greater clarity and better focus, without that they do not feel lethargic or exhausted at any time during or after the end of their fast
Additionally, Dr. Nagumo delves into the psychological aspects that come with practicing the Japanese form of fasting. Like developing a closer relationship with food through mindful eating practices. Which helps promote a healthier lifestyle by reducing stress levels caused by overeating or cravings for unhealthy foods. This understanding allows for deeper thinking about one’s own relationship with food, which can lead to greater control over our lives and better habits when it comes to eating healthier meals. Choose with conscious intention rather than thoughtless habits or emotional triggers associated with cravings.
Do you want to start Japanese fasting? Follow these tips.
When considering the practice of Japanese fasting, Dr. Yoshinori Nagumo recommends doing it gradually. The body must acclimate to smaller meals before attempting a drastic reduction. For example, one can substitute simple and lighter meals, eliminating starters, desserts and reducing the size of the plates, while maintaining a balanced meal consisting of a main dish and a soup or taking fruit and some nuts for breakfast. This allows you to continue eating what you want without overdoing it, but by eating appropriate portions.
Thanks to this transition to resting the digestive system after an overload of food, one can eventually switch to a longer fast and only eat one meal a day. When you eat this meal is up to you, but Dr. Nagumo recommends eating dinner in the evening, as it promotes sleep and the body’s natural rhythm while fasting the rest of the day.
To remember :
Overall, it is important to remember that fasting should always be done under close medical supervision for safety reasons. Especially for people with certain chronic illnesses or with dietary restrictions. But, generally speaking, it can be an effective way to promote physical and emotional balance within us, if done in moderation and with proper nutritional practices.
