Fasting is a topic that many of us are familiar with, and although people may have different motivations for fasting, one thing we can all agree on is that fasting is no walk in the park, simply because it takes immense self-discipline and relentless commitment. However, there are some simple steps you can take to ensure that your fast is goes off without a hitch.

• Choose how you refuel

Breaking your fast doesn’t automatically mean you can resume your eating habits from before. If anything, you should be more conscious about what you choose to eat when refueling. After all, that finite space in your stomach is now precious real estate! After going for an extended period without food, it’s important not to overload your system with “heavy” foods that are high in fat and sugar because these foods, as well as products that contain dairy, can easily upset your stomach and cause nausea or lethargy. Instead, turn to lighter, more nutrient-dense foods such as fruits or vegetables in order to replenish your body’s depleted energy stores.

• Keep yourself productive

When fasting, the feeling of hunger tends to be at the forefront of the mind, and can cause munch unwanted distraction, or even lead to the thought of giving in to temptation. Of course, this gnawing feeling is to be expected, but it doesn't have to be the focus of your day. By creating a simple to-do list at the start of each day, you can keep yourself busy as well as complete the tasks you wouldn’t find the time or energy to do otherwise. While it may sound trivial, this small feeling of achievement you obtain after a tiring day of fasting may just be what motivates you to carry on.

• Be aware of your habits

Humans are creatures of habit, so it comes as no surprise that some of these habits would be tied to our experiences with food. For example, just the thought of going to a movie theatre brings to mind popcorn, snacks and soda. When fasting, it is even more important to take note of these habits and reinforce your efforts in avoiding them. After all, it’s much easier to ignore temptation when it isn’t staring you in the face. By knowing in advance when your besties are planning a movie night and planning your fast around it, you can not only have your proverbial cake, but eat it too! Except maybe look for a healthier alternative to chips and soda?

Fasting may seem difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. Make your journey a little less bumpy by following these tips, as well as keeping in mind your own motivation for fasting. Eyes on the prize and all that!

References

https://kristenanneglover.com/ten-tips-for-a-successful-fast/