The Power of Self-Control Through Fasting

While many of us who have fasted usually think of it as a practice of abstaining from food, fasting is actually so much more. It is a deliberate practice that helps us to maintain self-control in all facets of life, especially in activities and reactions that can corrupt our soul and discredit our integrity if we're not careful.

Fasting is a great way to practice discipline, not just in abstaining from food but also in abstaining from behaviors and practices that could potentially harm our souls. This includes such things as impatience, curses, envy, anger, and lust. All of these are common occurrences noticed in people who lack self-control, and this is why fasting can truly benefit us in so many ways.

When done with great consideration, fasting can be transformational. You may be surprised at how comfortable you are with yourself once you start fasting and practice self-control in different areas. You could observe a decrease in your stress levels and an increase in your patience towards others. Things that may have triggered certain negative emotions in the past will no longer have the same power over you as you practice fasting and attain proper control over yourself.

This may sound like too much to achieve and handle. But, even if it means starting small, it can provide tremendous help in getting you in the right direction. Every little thing counts and the results of self-control from your life will begin to show themselves one step at a time.

Living life without self-control can mean that you are left constantly feeling anxious and enslaved by your own impulses and detrimental thoughts. Having self-control provides stability in the midst of chaos. With self-control, you are able to recognize what needs to be done and actually follow through with it, making sure that you stay true to yourself and your goals, regardless of the situation or environment.

Now, with fasting as a form of practicing self-control, it doesn't mean that you can't enjoy particular customs or traditions associated with a faith, hobby or diet; but rather modify and improve your perceptions, habits and patterns to eventually lead to greater physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing. Perhaps start by taking one day out of the week to dedicate to fasting, whether one hour or more depending on the level of commitment. It's best to start hiking the mountain of self-control one small step at a time. And soon enough, you will be able to traverse beyond what you thought was previously possible.

Fasting should not be viewed as a punishment, more a reminder of how powerful we ourselves can be when we develop self-control. The practice of self-control will change your understanding of how capable you really are on a holistic level. It requires great strength and focus to reach that level of mastery and even though it can be hard to do, it will only benefit our minds, souls, and behavior. So, fasting is not only about abstaining from food, it is about being able to high ourselves from indulging in activities and reactions that could be harmful for our souls. Instead, it is about cleansing ourselves physically, mentally, and spiritually. A whole new perspective on life awaits those willing to practice self-control when fasting.