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|title=Upavasa

|title=Upavasa

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|description=Upavasa is a practice of restraint from all activities

|description=Upavasa is a practice of restraint from all activities

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<div style='text-align:justify;'>

<p style="text-align:justify;">Upavasa is an exercise of restraining all activities. The word upavasa is widely applied for therapeutic fasting. However, practicing upavasa includes many other abstaining measures. Upavasa is one of the spiritual therapies and a type of [[Langhana|langhana]] (that which produces lightness of the [[Sharira|body]]) therapy[Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 22/18]. Upavasa is a religious and spiritual practice in many countries of South East Asia region. Greek physician Hippocrates has said “Continuous intake of [[Ahara|food]] without the elimination of waste materials from the [[Sharira|body]] is deleterious to one’s health and fasting is the best natural remedy.”.Indian sages practiced upavasa to gain more spiritual powers. ‘[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ekadashi Ekadashi] (Eleventh day after full moon and new moon)’ Upavasa, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri Shivaratri] Upavasa, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chhath Chatpuja] Upavasa etc. are traditionally followed as religious practices. There are different type of upavasa that may be compared with calorie restriction. It includes lowering 30-40 percent of usual calorie consumption, while maintaining all the necessary nutrients and vitamins to support [[Ayu|life]]. This article describes the concepts and practices of upavasa in detail.  

Upavasa is an exercise of restraining all activities. The word upavasa is widely applied for therapeutic fasting. However, practicing upavasa includes many other abstaining measures. Upavasa is one of the spiritual therapies and a type of langhana (that which produces lightness of the body) therapy[Cha.Sa. SutraSthana 22/18].Upavasa is a religious and spiritual practice in many countries of South East Asia region. Greek physician Hippocrates has said “Continuous intake of food without the elimination of waste materials from the body is deleterious to one’s health and fasting is the best natural remedy.”.Indian sages practiced upavasa to gain more spiritual powers. ‘Ekadashi (Eleventh day after full moon and new moon)’ Upavasa,Shivaratri Upavasa,ChatpujaUpavasa etc. are traditionally followed as religious practices.There are different type of upavasathat may be compared with calorie restriction. It includes lowering 30-40 percent of usual calorie consumption, while maintaining all the necessary nutrients and vitamins to support life.This article describes the concepts and practices of upavasa in detail.  

</p>

</div>

{{Infobox

{{Infobox

|title =  Contributors

|title =  Contributors

|label1 = Section/Chapter/topic

|label1 = Section/Chapter/topic

|data1 = Concepts& Practices /[[Upavasa]]   

|data1 = Concepts & Practices /[[Upavasa]]   

|label2 = Authors

|label2 = Authors

|data2 = Bhojani M. K. ¹,<br/>AcharyaRashmi Rekha ¹<br/>Deepankar Rahul¹

|data2 = Bhojani M. K. ¹<br/>Acharya Rashmi Rekha ¹<br/>Deepankar Rahul¹

|label3 = Reviewer

|label3 = Reviewer

|data3 = Basisht G.²,

|data3 = [[Gopal Basisht|Basisht G.]]²

|label4 = Editor

|label4 = Editor

|data4 = Deole Y.S.³

|data4 = [[Yogesh Deole|Deole Y.S.]]³

|label5 = Affiliations

|label5 = Affiliations

²Rheumatologist, Orlando, Florida, U.S.A.

²Rheumatologist, Orlando, Florida, U.S.A.

³Department ofKayachikitsa, G.J.Patel Institute of Ayurvedic Studies and Research, New Vallabh Vidyanagar, Gujarat, India

³Department of Kayachikitsa, G.J.Patel Institute of Ayurvedic Studies and Research, New Vallabh Vidyanagar, Gujarat, India

|label6 = Correspondence emails

|label6 = Correspondence emails

== Etymology ==

== Etymology ==

<div style='text-align:justify;'>The Sanskrit word ‘Upavasa’ is derived from verb ‘vasa’ (dhatu meaning to dwell or to stay) and ‘ghnya’ pratyaya.It starts with prefix ‘Upa’ (upa+vas+ghnya), meaning towards, near to, by the side of.<ref>Radhakanthadeva. Shabda Kalpa Druma New Delhi: Rashtriya Sanskrit Pratishtana ,2002 Vol 1 pg 260</ref>Thus, the word ‘upavasa’ means to abide by a state of abstinence and abstain from food.<br/>  

<div style='text-align:justify;'>The Sanskrit word ‘Upavasa’ is derived from verb ‘vasa’ (dhatu meaning to dwell or to stay) and ‘ghnya’ pratyaya. It starts with prefix ‘Upa’ (upa+vas+ghnya), meaning towards, near to, by the side of.<ref>Radhakanthadeva. Shabda Kalpa Druma New Delhi: Rashtriya Sanskrit Pratishtana ,2002 Vol 1 pg 260</ref>Thus, the word ‘upavasa’ means to abide by a state of abstinence and abstain from [[Ahara|food]].<br/>  

Upavasa means “to sit or stay near (the God or divinity)”, to maintainGod in close proximity to your heart and mind. Upavasa has an inbuilt orientation of divine therapy.In a therapeutic sense, it can be considered as staying near oneself or giving rest to the agni(GodVaishwanara).</div>

Upavasa means “to sit or stay near (the God or divinity)”, to maintain God in close proximity to your heart and [[Manas|mind]]. Upavasa has an inbuilt orientation of divine therapy. In a therapeutic sense, it can be considered as staying near oneself or giving rest to the agni(GodVaishwanara).</div>

== Definition ==

== Definition ==

<ul style="list-style-type:square"><li>Ahoratrabhojanaabhava: Lack of food for the whole day and night.<ref>Vachaspatyam 1332</ref></li>

<ul style="list-style-type:square"><li>Ahoratrabhojanaabhava: Lack of [[Ahara|food]] for the whole day and night.<ref>Vachaspatyam 1332</ref></li>

<li>Sarvabhogavivarjana: Abstaining from every single delight of senses, mind, and body.<ref>Radhakanthadeva. Shabda Kalpa Druma New Delhi: Rashtriya Sanskrit Pratishtana ,2002 Vol 1 pg 260</ref></li>

<li>Sarvabhogavivarjana: Abstaining from every single delight of senses, [[Manas|mind]], and [[Sharira|body]].<ref>Radhakanthadeva. Shabda Kalpa Druma New Delhi: Rashtriya Sanskrit Pratishtana ,2002 Vol 1 pg 260</ref></li>

<li>In general, upavasa denotes abiding in a state of abstinence and one should refrain from food and other psychological tendencies like desires(ichcha), anger(krodha), grief(shoka), greed(lobha), fascination(moha) etc.</li></ul>

<li>In general, upavasa denotes abiding in a state of abstinence and one should refrain from [[Ahara|food]] and other psychological tendencies like desires(ichcha), anger(krodha), grief(shoka), greed(lobha), fascination(moha) etc.</li></ul>

== Synonyms ==

== Synonyms ==

== Types ==

== Types ==

<ul><li>Generally: Two types are described based on oral intake.</li>

<ul><li>Generally: Two types are described based on oral intake.</li>

<ol><li>Nirahara:without taking any food</li>

<ol><li>Nirahara: without taking any [[Ahara|food]]</li>

<ul><li>Sajala: with water</li>

<ul><li>Sajala: with water</li>

<li>Nirjala: without consumption of water</li></ul>

<li>Nirjala: without consumption of water</li></ul>

<li style="font-weight:bold">According to Jainism:<ref>https://www.wisdomlib.org/definition/upavasa</ref></li>

<li style="font-weight:bold">According to Jainism:<ref>https://www.wisdomlib.org/definition/upavasa</ref></li>

<ol><li>Ekashana: Having a single meal a day.</li>

<ol><li>Ekashana: Having a single meal a day.</li>

<li>Aayambil: Having one meal per day and boiled water along with restrictionsfor some particular food items like milk, curd, cheese, sugar, oil, tea, coffee, sour, spicy food</li>

<li>Aayambil: Having one meal per day and boiled water along with restrictions for some particular food items like milk, curd, cheese, sugar, oil, tea, coffee, sour, spicy food</li>

<li>Biyashana: Having two meals per day</li>

<li>Biyashana: Having two meals per day</li>

<li>Unodara: Consuming smaller portions than desired and avoiding hunger.</li>

<li>Unodara: Consuming smaller portions than desired and avoiding hunger.</li>

<li>VruttiSankshep: restricting the amount of food consumed.</li>

<li>Vrutti Sankshep: restricting the amount of food consumed.</li>

<li>Rasa parityag: renunciation of one's favourite meals.</li>

<li>Rasa parityag: renunciation of one's favourite meals.</li>

<li>ChauviharUpavasa: From the preceding dusk till the dawn of the third day, any sort of food and liquid is prohibited.</li>

<li>Chauvihar Upavasa: From the preceding dusk till the dawn of the third day, any sort of food and liquid is prohibited.</li>

<li>TriviharUpavasa: From the previous evening's sundown through the next morning's sunrise, all food and liquids are prohibited.</li>

<li>Trivihar Upavasa: From the previous evening's sundown through the next morning's sunrise, all food and liquids are prohibited.</li>

<li>Aathai: Foreight days without meals, just boiled water is consumed.</li>

<li>Aathai: Foreight days without meals, just boiled water is consumed.</li>

<li>Navai: For nine days without meals, just boiled water is consumed.</li>

<li>Navai: For nine days without meals, just boiled water is consumed.</li>

<li>Varshitap: Individual consumes only on alternate days between dawn and dusk.</li></ol>

<li>Varshitap: Individual consumes only on alternate days between dawn and dusk.</li></ol>

<li>According to some other acharya<ref>Rai kumar vijay(2021)swastvrat vighyan;Varnasi;Chaukhamba Sanskrit Sansthana;Fifth Edition;p.547</ref></li>

<li>According to some other acharya<ref>Rai kumar vijay(2021)swastvrat vighyan;Varnasi;Chaukhamba Sanskrit Sansthana;Fifth Edition;p.547</ref></li>

<ol><li>Kalikaupavasa: Fasting for a specific time duration in a day.</li>

<ol><li>Kalika upavasa: Fasting for a specific time duration in a day.</li>

<li>Dugdhakalpa: When only milk is permissible for drinking during fasting.</li>

<li>Dugdha kalpa: When only milk is permissible for drinking during fasting.</li>

<li>Rasoupavasa:When an individual restricts oneself to a specific taste.</li></ol></ul>

<li>Raso upavasa: When an individual restricts oneself to a specific taste.</li></ol></ul>

== Upavasavis-à-vis pratyahara<ref>Frawley,David.Pratyahara:the forgotten limb of yoga.<nowiki>[online]</nowiki></ref> ==

== Upavasa vis-à-vis pratyahara<ref>Frawley,David.Pratyahara:the forgotten limb of yoga.[online]</ref> ==

<div style='text-align:justify;'>‘Pratyahara’ means control of ahara.It is the fifth step among the eight steps described by sage Patanjali in the book Yoga sutra.As yoga shastra describes three levels of food:

<div style='text-align:justify;'>‘Pratyahara’ means control of ahara. It is the fifth step among the eight steps described by sage Patanjali in the book Yoga sutra. As yoga shastra describes three levels of food:

Nourishment of every individual is carried out by the help of earth, water, fire, air and ether which is present in physical form of food.

Nourishment of every individual is carried out by the help of earth, water, fire, air and ether which is present in physical form of food.  

For the nourishment of mind, subtle elements together constitute smell, taste, sight, touch and the sensation of sound.  

For the nourishment of [[Manas|mind]], subtle elements together constitute smell, taste, sight, touch and the sensation of sound.  

<br/>One should refrain from junk food, wrong consortium etc. and should emphasize on correct food eating habits, right consortium etc. These are the two folds known by the term ‘Pratyahara’.

<br/>One should refrain from junk food, wrong consortium etc. and should emphasize on correct food eating habits, right consortium etc. These are the two folds known by the term ‘Pratyahara’.

<ol type="A"><li>Physical food: Every meal comprises of five elements which are essential for the nourishment, growth and overall development of the body.</li>

<ol type="A"><li>Physical food: Every meal comprises of five elements which are essential for the nourishment, growth and overall development of the [[Sharira|body]].</li>

<li>Impressions : Our mind retains all the things perceived through our five senses.</li>

<li>Impressions : Our mind retains all the things perceived through our five senses.</li>

Associations: Our food habit also has impact on our mind and they are inter related to each other as stated in Bhagvat Gita about sattvik, rajasik and tamasik food which affect sattva,rajas and tamas guna of our mind.</ol>

Associations: Our food habit also has impact on our [[Manas|mind]] and they are inter related to each other as stated in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhagavad_Gita Bhagvat Gita] about sattvika, rajasika and tamasika food which affect [[Sattva|sattva]], [[Rajas|rajas]] and [[Tamas|tamas]] [[Guna|guna]] of our [[Manas|mind]].</ol>

By this, upavasa(fasting) touches all the virtues of the tripod of human life.

By this, upavasa(fasting) touches all the virtues of the tripod of human life.

</div>

</div>

Following factors should be considered before practicing upavasa.

Following factors should be considered before practicing upavasa.

<div style="column-count:4">

<div style="column-count:4">

* Prakriti (constitution)

* [[Prakriti|Prakriti]] (constitution)

* vaya (age)

* [[vaya]] (age)

* rogibala (strength of the patient)

* rogi bala (strength of the patient)

* vyadhibala (strength of the disease)

* [[vyadhi]] bala (strength of the disease)

* kala (time period)

* [[Kala|kala]] (time period)

* satmya (habit)

* [[Satmya|satmya]] (habit)

* agni(digestive capacity)

* [[Agni|agni]] (digestive capacity)

* desha (habitat)

* [[Desha|desha]] (habitat)

</div>

</div>

== Method of withdrawal from fast ==

== Method of withdrawal from fast ==

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Favorable outcome of a fast depends on how it is broken.

<div style='text-align:justify;'>Favorable outcome of a fast depends on how it is broken.

The following day of the fast, after evacuation of bowel and bladder properly, one should consume unctuous, sweet, soft, tasty and sattvik food.  

The following day of the fast, after evacuation of bowel and bladder properly, one should consume unctuous, sweet, soft, tasty and sattvika food.  

Do not overindulge oneself in over eating, abstain from quick eating and food should be chewed properly and thoroughly, gradual changes in normal diet should be made after few days.

Do not overindulge oneself in over eating, abstain from quick eating and food should be chewed properly and thoroughly, gradual changes in normal diet should be made after few days.

Therapeutically, this is depicted in the sansarjana krama (post purification measures) after purification (shodhana) therapy; wherein it starts with peya– a low calorie intake and ends with krutamamsa rasa – a high calorie intake. This gradual withdrawal and adaptation enhances the digestive capacity and helps the body become accustomed to regular food again.</div>

 

Therapeutically, this is depicted in the sansarjana krama (post purification measures) after purification ([[Shodhana|shodhana]]) therapy; wherein it starts with peya– a low calorie intake and ends with kruta mamsa rasa – a high calorie intake. This gradual withdrawal and adaptation enhances the digestive capacity and helps the [[Sharira|body]] become accustomed to regular food again.</div>

== Indication of upavasa ==

== Indication of upavasa ==

Following disorders with mild intensity are treated with upavasa. <br/>

Following disorders with mild intensity are treated with upavasa. <br/>

Vami (vomiting), atisara (diarrhoea), gaurav (heaviness), hrudrog (heart-related disorder), acute intestinal irritation (cholera), alasaka (delayed emptying of stomach or sluggish bowels), jwara (fever), arochaka (anorexia), kapha-pittaroga (disorders due to kapha and pitta predominance). [Cha.Sa. Sutra Sthana 22/20]

Vami (vomiting), [[Atisara Chikitsa|atisara (diarrhoea)]], gaurav (heaviness), hrudrog (heart-related disorder), acute intestinal irritation (cholera), [[Alasaka|alasaka]] (delayed emptying of stomach or sluggish bowels), [[Jwara|jwara (fever)]], arochaka (anorexia), kapha-pitta roga (disorders due to [[Kapha|kapha]] and [[Pitta|pitta]] predominance). [Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 22/20]

== Contraindications ==

== Contraindications ==

<ol style="text-align:justify;"><li>Patients with disease from elevated vata dosha should abstain oneself from fasting and those who have unrestrained thirst and hunger, aged and children, pregnant lady and sick person should avoid fasting.</li>

<ol style="text-align:justify;"><li>Patients with [[Vyadhi|disease]] from elevated [[Vata dosha|vata dosha]] should abstain oneself from fasting and those who have unrestrained thirst and hunger, aged and children, pregnant lady and sick person should avoid fasting.</li>

<li>As stated byacharya Charak, pregnant woman with aggravated vatawho practice frequent fastingdevelop retardation of fetus. This underdevelopment stays for long without any other signs, known as ‘Nagodara’. [Ch.Sa. Shareerasthana 8/26]</li>

<li>As stated by acharya Charak, pregnant woman with aggravated [[Vata dosha|vata]] who practice frequent fasting develop retardation of fetus. This underdevelopment stays for long without any other signs, known as ‘Nagodara’. [Cha. Sa. [[Sharira Sthana]] 8/26]</li>

<li>Fasting is contraindicated in vataja diseases, chronic diseases and fever, along with this, in people with anger, jealousy and psychological disorders. [Ch.Sa. Chikitsasthana 3/140]</li></ol>

<li>Fasting is contraindicated in vataja diseases, chronic diseases and [[Jwara|fever]], along with this, in people with anger, jealousy and psychological disorders. [Cha. Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 3/140]</li></ol>

== Physiology of fasting ==

== Physiology of fasting ==

<ul style="text-align:justify;"><li>Glycogen, a polymer of glucose, is stored in the liver and during non- availability of food, certain enzymes break it down into glucose, which provides energy to thebody. If one never fasts, this enzyme system that breaks glycogen into glucose may not remain effective. Therefore, periodical fasting is considered beneficial to the body. Once the glycogen reserve is exhausted, the adipose tissue comes to the rescue of the fasting person.</li>

<ul style="text-align:justify;"><li>Glycogen, a polymer of glucose, is stored in the liver and during non- availability of food, certain enzymes break it down into glucose, which provides energy to the [[Sharira|body]]. If one never fasts, this enzyme system that breaks glycogen into glucose may not remain effective. Therefore, periodical fasting is considered beneficial to the [[Sharira|body]]. Once the glycogen reserve is exhausted, the adipose tissue comes to the rescue of the fasting person.</li>

<li>During fasting, firstly, blood glucose is used for energy. Next to that, glycogen stored in hepatocytes is utilized. This increases the breakdown of adipose tissues which is stated as lipolysis. As a result of which, more fatty acids and glycerol are formed and released into blood. <br/>Ketones are produced in our body. Fatty acids are transported to hepatocytes, then get metabolized to produce Beta-hydroxybutyrate (3-OHB) and acetoacetate. This induces mitochondrial biogenesis. Ketones are carried into cells with high metabolic activities like neurons, muscles etc., converted into acetyl coenzyme A. It enters into Tricarboxylic acid cycle where ATP are generated. Glucose is primary source of energy, but it gets shifted to fatty acids and ketones during fasting. </li>

<li>During fasting, firstly, blood glucose is used for energy. Next to that, glycogen stored in hepatocytes is utilized. This increases the breakdown of adipose tissues which is stated as lipolysis. As a result of which, more fatty acids and glycerol are formed and released into blood. <br/>Ketones are produced in our [[Sharira|body]]. Fatty acids are transported to hepatocytes, then get metabolized to produce Beta-hydroxybutyrate (3-OHB) and acetoacetate. This induces mitochondrial biogenesis. Ketones are carried into cells with high metabolic activities like neurons, muscles etc., converted into acetyl coenzyme A. It enters into Tricarboxylic acid cycle where ATP are generated. Glucose is primary source of energy, but it gets shifted to fatty acids and ketones during fasting. </li>

<li>Prolonged fasting is not advisable, as fasting for extended periods makes the fat cells pathological. Further, during fasting the cell membrane lining the intestine undergoes a reorientation program to achieve maximum efficiency. The membrane cholesterol level goes down; hence, the membrane becomes free and absorbs more during fasting.</li>

<li>Prolonged fasting is not advisable, as fasting for extended periods makes the fat cells pathological. Further, during fasting the cell membrane lining the intestine undergoes a reorientation program to achieve maximum efficiency. The membrane cholesterol level goes down; hence, the membrane becomes free and absorbs more during fasting.</li>

<li>Fasting also has an inhibitory effect on cell proliferation and eliminates pre-neoplastic cells.</li></ul>

<li>Fasting also has an inhibitory effect on cell proliferation and eliminates pre-neoplastic cells.</li></ul>

== Probable mode of action of upavasa ==

== Probable mode of action of upavasa ==

<ul style="text-align:justify;"><li>Upavasa makes the body light by relieving heaviness and clears the channels. So, during fasting, our body, as well as mind, feels light. Heaviness is the characteristic of kapha.Kapha creates a blockage in the channels of our body.</li>

<ul style="text-align:justify;"><li>Upavasa makes the [[Sharira|body]] light by relieving heaviness and clears the channels. So, during fasting, our [[Sharira|body]], as well as [[Manas|mind]], feels light. Heaviness is the characteristic of [[Kapha|kapha]]. [[Kapha|Kapha]] creates a blockage in the channels of our [[Sharira|body]].</li>

<li>During Upavasa, Agni, previously busy with digestion, becomes free; hence it digests the undigested food already present in the body. Then it digests the samadosha, dhatu and mala.</li>

<li>During Upavasa, [[Agni|Agni]], previously busy with digestion, becomes free; hence it digests the undigested food already present in the [[Sharira|body]]. Then it digests the sama [[dosha]], [[Dhatu|dhatu]] and [[Mala|mala]].</li>

<li>The atmospheric air and the heat dry up the small water bodies on the earth's surface. Similarly, fasting increases vayu and agnimahabhuta (the air and fire components) in the body. This in turn dries up the mildly vitiated dosha. [Cha.Sa. Vimana Sthana 03/44]</li></ul>

<li>The atmospheric air and the heat dry up the small water bodies on the earth's surface. Similarly, fasting increases [[Vayu mahabhuta|vayu]] and [[agni mahabhuta]] (the air and fire components) in the [[Sharira|body]]. This in turn dries up the mildly vitiated [[Dosha|dosha]]. [Cha.Sa. [[Vimana Sthana]] 03/44]</li></ul>

== Applied aspect of upavasa(fasting) ==

== Applied aspect of upavasa(fasting) ==

<ol style="text-align:justify;"><li style="font-weight:bold">Diagnosis of disease: <br/><span style="font-weight:normal">The desire to fast may be used as a diagnostic criterion forvataocclusion by excessive kapha dosha. [Cha.Sa.ChikitsaSthana 28/63]</span></li>

<ol style="text-align:justify;"><li style="font-weight:bold">Diagnosis of [[Vyadhi|disease]]: <br/><span style="font-weight:normal">The desire to fast may be used as a diagnostic criterion for [[Vata dosha|vata]] occlusion by excessive [[Kapha|kapha dosha]]. [Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/63]</span></li>

<li style="font-weight:bold">In management of disease:</li>

<li style="font-weight:bold">In management of [[Vyadhi|disease]]:</li>

<ul><li>Fever (jwararoga) [Cha.Sa.ChikitsaSthana 3/139],</li>

<ul><li>[[Jwara|Fever (jwararoga)]] [Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 3/139],</li>

<li>Blood vitiation (raktajaroga) [Cha.Sa. Sutra Sthana 24/18]</li>

<li>Blood vitiation (raktajaroga) [Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 24/18]</li>

<li>Diseases originating from the stomach (amashaya) can be treated through fasting. [Cha.Sa. NidanaSthana 8/31]</li>

<li>[[Vyadhi|Diseases]] originating from the stomach ([[Amashaya|amashaya]]) can be treated through fasting. [Cha.Sa. [[Nidana Sthana]] 8/31]</li>

<li>Bleeding disorders (raktapitta) especially urdhwajaraktapitta through the upper orifices (eyes, mouth, and nose) [Cha.Sa.ChikitsaSthana 4/30],</li>

<li>Bleeding disorders ([[Raktapitta|raktapitta]]) especially urdhwaga raktapitta through the upper orifices (eyes, mouth, and nose) [Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 4/30],</li>

<li>Noninfectious gastroenteritis (visuchika). [Cha.Sa.VimanaSthana 2/13],</li>

<li>Noninfectious gastroenteritis ([[Visuchika|visuchika]]). [Cha.Sa. [[Vimana Sthana]] 2/13],</li>

<li>Mild aggravate dosha can be managed by fasting therapy in case of diarrhea (Atisara) [Cha.Sa.ChikitsaSthana 19/19],</li>

<li>Mild aggravate [[Dosha|dosha]] can be managed by fasting therapy in case of diarrhea ([[Atisara Chikitsa|Atisara]]) [Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 19/19],</li>

<li>In all disorders of nutritive fluid (rasa dhatu) [Cha.Sa.SutraSthana 28/25] and the conditionsaffecting mouth and oral cavity. [Cha.Sa. ChikitsaSthana 12/80]</li>

<li>In all disorders of nutritive fluid ([[Rasa dhatu|rasa dhatu]]) [Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 28/25] and the conditions affecting mouth and oral cavity. [Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/80]</li>

<li>Disorders due to over-nutrition (santarpanjanyavikara) [Cha.Sa. Sutra Sthana 23/8]</li>

<li>Disorders due to over-nutrition ([[Santarpaniya Adhyaya|santarpanjanya vikara]]) [Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana]] 23/8]</li>

<li>In the prodromal stage of all varieties of erysipelas (visarpa) [Cha.Sa.ChikitsaSthan 21/44]</li>

<li>In the prodromal stage of all varieties of erysipelas ([[Visarpa Chikitsa|visarpa]]) [Cha.Sa. 21/44]</li>

<li>Indigestion caused due to ama (amajeerna). [Su.Sa. SutraSthana. 46/505]</li>

<li>Indigestion caused due to [[Ama|ama]] (amajeerna). [Su.Sa. Sutra Sthana 46/505]</li>

<li>Fissure in ano associated with ama. [Cha.Sa. SiddhiSthana 6/63]</li>

<li>Fissure in ano associated with [[Ama|ama]]. [Cha.Sa. [[Siddhi Sthana]] 6/63]</li>

<li>Grahaniroga[Cha.Sa. ChikitsaSthan 15/65]</li>

<li>[[Grahani Chikitsa|Grahani roga]] [Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/65]</li>

<li>Akshiroga, Udararoga, Pratishyaya, Vrana<ref>Vaidya Lakshmipati Shastri. Yogaratnakar with Vidyotini Hindi Commentary (uttarardha:netra roga Chikitsa verse no.3 ).Varnasi;Chaukhamba Sanskrit Sansthana;Fifth Edition;p.361</ref></li>

<li>Akshi roga, [[Udara Chikitsa|Udara roga]], Pratishyaya, Vrana<ref>Vaidya Lakshmipati Shastri. Yogaratnakar with Vidyotini Hindi Commentary (uttarardha:netra roga Chikitsa verse no.3 ).Varnasi;Chaukhamba Sanskrit Sansthana;Fifth Edition;p.361</ref></li>

<li>Fasting can improve or even cure diseases related to cardiovascular system, circulatory system, digestive system, locomotor system (ex. rheumatism), respiratory system (ex. asthma)</li></ul>

<li>Fasting can improve or even cure [[Vyadhi|diseases]] related to cardiovascular system, circulatory system, digestive system, locomotor system (ex. rheumatism), respiratory system (ex. asthma)</li></ul>

<li style="font-weight:bold">In the preservation of health:</li>

<li style="font-weight:bold">In the preservation of health:</li>

<ul><li>To maintain equilibrium of dosha in body, wintertime is favorable for fasting (hemanta and shishira). [Cha.Sa. Sutra Sthana 22/24]</li>

<ul><li>To maintain equilibrium of [[Dosha|dosha]] in [[Sharira|body]], wintertime is favorable for fasting ([[Hemanta|hemanta]] and [[Shishira|shishira]]). [Cha.Sa. Sutra Sthana 22/24]</li>

<li>Upavasa should be practiced on a regular interval in obese people to remove toxic metabolic products (ama).</li></ul>

<li>Upavasa should be practiced on a regular interval in obese people to remove toxic metabolic products ([[Ama|ama]]).</li></ul>

<li>It is a kind of spiritual therapy (daivyavyapashayachikitsa). So, in prajnaparadhajanyavyadhi which may be compared with life style disorder, the upavasa procedure can be very helpful.</li>

<li>It is a kind of spiritual therapy (daivyavyapashraya chikitsa). So, in [[Prajnaparadha|prajnaparadhajanya vyadhi]] which may be compared with life style disorder, the upavasa procedure can be very helpful.</li>

<li>Upavasa can make the body light by relieving heaviness. Heaviness is generally caused by kapha dosha, similarly obstruction of the body channel also occurs because of kapha dosha. So upavasa helps in all the kapha and kapha associated with pitta diseases.</li>

<li>Upavasa can make the [[Shishira|body]] light by relieving heaviness. Heaviness is generally caused by [[Kapha|kapha dosha]], similarly obstruction of the [[Shishira|body]] channel also occurs because of [[Kapha|kapha dosha]]. So upavasa helps in all the [[Kapha|kapha]] and [[Kapha|kapha]] associated with [[Pitta|pitta]] [[Vyadhi|diseases]].</li>

<li style="font-weight:bold">It removes toxins (ama): <span style="font-weight:normal">The fire intensity is reduced by the remaining ash particles on it and hampers the burning process. Similarly, in the human body, the vitiated dosha lessen the power and disable the digestive capacity. It causes stomach related debilitation, and produces ama. These ama get accumulated in our body and block the minute channels which leads to diseases. During fasting, digestive process gets ignited and destroys metabolic toxins, and clears the blockages of channels.</span></li>

<li style="font-weight:bold">It removes toxins ([[Ama|ama]]): <span style="font-weight:normal">The fire intensity is reduced by the remaining ash particles on it and hampers the burning process. Similarly, in the human [[Shishira|body]], the vitiated [[Dosha|dosha]] lessen the power and disable the digestive capacity. It causes stomach related debilitation, and produces [[Ama|ama]]. These [[Ama|ama]] get accumulated in our [[Shishira|body]] and block the minute channels which leads to [[Vyadhi|diseases]]. During fasting, digestive process gets ignited and destroys metabolic toxins, and clears the blockages of channels.</span></li>

<li style="font-weight:bold">Reducing fat: <span style="font-weight:normal">Fasting dissolves all unnecessary and unnatural fat deposits all over the body.</span></li>

<li style="font-weight:bold">Reducing fat: <span style="font-weight:normal">Fasting dissolves all unnecessary and unnatural fat deposits all over the [[Shishira|body]].</span></li>

<li>Our senses become more active during fasting.</li>

<li>Our senses become more active during fasting.</li>

<li>Excellent remedy for physical, mental, and spiritual upliftment.</li>

<li>Excellent remedy for physical, mental, and spiritual upliftment.</li>

<li style="font-weight:bold">The physiological effect: <span style="font-weight:normal">lowering of blood sugar, lowering of cholesterol, lowering of systolic blood pressure</span></li>

<li style="font-weight:bold">The physiological effect: <span style="font-weight:normal">lowering of blood sugar, lowering of cholesterol, lowering of systolic blood pressure</span></li>

<li style="font-weight:bold">Restoring youthfulness and longevity: <span style="font-weight:normal">Fasting hastens the destruction of the body's decaying tissues through hunger and then builds new tissues through nutrition. Therefore, fasting is regarded as an effective means of restoring youthfulness and longevity.</span></li>

<li style="font-weight:bold">Restoring youthfulness and longevity: <span style="font-weight:normal">Fasting hastens the destruction of the body's decaying tissues through hunger and then builds new tissues through nutrition. Therefore, fasting is regarded as an effective means of restoring youthfulness and longevity.</span></li>

<li>Several physicians advise patients to skip meals, sometimes for a few days, before prescribing them a controlled diet.</li>

<li>Several physicians advise patients to skip meals, sometimes for a few days, before prescribing them a controlled [[Ahara vidhi|diet]].</li>

<li>Fasting is helpful in reducing the symptoms in some psychological disorders like depression, anxiety, schizophrenia etc.</li>

<li>Fasting is helpful in reducing the symptoms in some psychological disorders like depression, anxiety, schizophrenia etc.</li>

<li style="font-weight:bold">Upavasa(fasting) during pandemic: <span style="font-weight:normal">The importance of fasting is described in janapadoddhvamsaneeya vimana adhyaya. Regular practice of fasting was very helpful for COVID-19 patients.Fasting has an added effect to vaccination which strengthen our immune system during the pandemic and after the pandemic also.</span></li></ol>

<li style="font-weight:bold">Upavasa(fasting) during pandemic: <span style="font-weight:normal">The importance of fasting is described in [[Janapadodhvansaniya Vimana|janapadoddhvamsaneeya vimana adhyaya]]. Regular practice of fasting was very helpful for COVID-19 patients. Fasting has an added effect to vaccination which strengthen our immune system during the pandemic and after the pandemic also.<ref>Horne BD, May HT, Muhlestein JB, et al;Association of periodic fasting with lower severity of COVID-19 outcomes in the SARS-CoV-2 prevaccine era: an observational cohort from the INSPIRE registryBMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health 2022;e000462. doi: 10.1136/bmjnph-2022-000462</ref></span></li></ol>

 

 

 

 

 

 

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== References ==

== References ==