Fast
Fasting as a ritual: body and mind in harmony
When the body receives no food for a few hours, something fascinating happens: the insulin level drops, the cells use stored energy reserves and begin to regenerate.
This metabolic phase stabilizes blood sugar levels, promotes fat burning, and improves insulin sensitivity. Studies show that regular fasting periods activate cell regeneration, reduce inflammation, and support important repair processes.
Fasting therefore has an effect down to the deepest cell layers. Through temporary abstinence, the body activates its ability to cleanse and regenerate itself. This process, known as autophagy, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 2016 and is considered key to healthy cell aging and inner balance.
“Autophagy is a fundamental process for degradation and recycling of cellular components. It plays an important role in maintaining cellular homeostasis.” – Yoshinori Ohsumi, Nobel Lecture, 2016
In other words : Autophagy is a fundamental process for the breakdown and recycling of cellular components. It plays an important role in maintaining cellular balance.
But fasting is more than biochemistry – it's also an attitude. Those who fast consciously become more attuned to when their body needs food and when it doesn't. This leads to a new understanding of mindful eating: less automatic behavior, more awareness.
What happens in the body during fasting
During fasting, the metabolism becomes more flexible. When insulin secretion decreases, the body uses stored fat as an energy source. At the same time, damaged cell structures are broken down – this strengthens cell health and counteracts inflammation.
“Knowledge of autophagy gives us insight into how the body maintains itself in the face of changing conditions.” – Yoshinori Ohsumi
In other words: Knowledge about autophagy gives us insight into how the body maintains itself under changing conditions.
Blood sugar levels remain more stable, which prevents cravings and keeps energy levels consistent. These effects occur with almost all forms of fasting – not just intermittent fasting.
Different types of fasting
• Intermittent fasting (e.g., 16:8 or 14:10): Alternating between eating and fasting periods. Supports digestion, blood sugar, and energy balance.
• OMAD (One Meal a Day): One meal per day – ideal for clear structures and mindful eating moments.
• Therapeutic fasting: A multi-day phase with broth or herbal tea – promotes detoxification and mental clarity.
• Alkaline fasting: Focus on alkaline-forming foods – gentle and balancing.
• Juice or water fasting: Activates deeper cellular processes and should be carefully prepared. All forms support metabolism, regulate insulin levels, and promote regeneration processes in the body.
Conscious nutrition as the key
Fasting and nutrition go hand in hand. After a period of abstinence from food, the body is particularly receptive – therefore, what we give it should be nutrient-rich, fresh, and easily digestible. Traditionally, it is recommended to break the fast with a warm bone broth. It is rich in minerals, collagen, and amino acids, provides the body with energy, and supports the digestive tract during the transition back to eating.
Conscious eating is not a diet, but an attitude: listening to what the body needs and eating with gratitude instead of out of habit.
Fasting as a ritual – body and mind in harmony
I've been fasting for several years and have tried various methods. In my daily life, I usually practice OMAD (One Meal a Day) – one meal per day. Shortly before my period, I switch to 16:8 because my body needs more stability then. This year, I tried a 72-hour fast for the first time – not out of ambition, but out of a need for rest and mental clarity. Every experience has shown me that fasting means connecting with your own rhythm.
Fasting should not be a burden, but a liberation. It is a ritual of letting go – an invitation to feel the body and find the balance between activity and rest.
Conclusion
Fasting is not a diet, but a form of mindfulness. It offers regeneration, inner clarity, and a new awareness of nutrition and health. The focus is not on deprivation, but on what you gain – energy, well-being, and peace.
👉 Have you ever tried fasting? Share your experience with us – perhaps you'll inspire someone who is currently searching for their own rhythm.