Fasting and the mind

Fasting is not only a challenge for the body, but can also be mentally demanding – especially for those who are new to it.

From a psychological perspective, fasting is a multifaceted and complex process. Stimulating messengers such as endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin are released, and new nerve connections are encouraged. These processes are thought to be a motivational mechanism of the body, preventing us from withdrawing in a bad mood. In earlier times, this mechanism was essential for survival, helping people to stay active in times of scarcity. At Marienkron, of course, food supply is not the challenge anymore. 🙂

Both the mind and the gut need to be prepared for a fasting cure. ©Marienkron by Steve Haider

Mental preparation

Preparing for a fasting retreat is not only about adjusting nutrition – mental preparation can also be very beneficial. First and foremost: fasting is voluntary. Only when undertaken freely can fasting be successful. The next step is setting a clear intention: How long do I want to fast? What do I want to let go of? “Defining a goal is a simple but powerful tool. It may sound banal, but in my opinion, it’s essential. Without it, it’s much harder to stay committed,” says Anne Krone, psychotherapist and coach at Marienkron. As part of your preparation, it’s wise to remove temptations from your environment. Think about where risks may lie for you and eliminate them. Lastly, try to complete stressful tasks or obligations in advance so you can enter the fasting period with a clear head.

Staying motivated

During a fasting week, there may be moments when motivation dips. We asked Anne Krone how to stay on track even through low phases:

• keep the purpose in mind: Whether your goal is to break bad habits, focus on the essentials, or find inner balance – remind yourself why you started.
• fill your time with joy: Pursue a hobby that usually gets neglected, enjoy a massage or beauty treatment, or finally read that book on your nightstand. It’s important to enrich the fasting time with positive experiences and reward yourself for your progress.
• breathe fresh air: Being outdoors boosts well-being. Whether it’s Nordic walking, a gentle stroll, or light gymnastics, movement should always be part of the fasting experience.
• involve family and friends: Share your plan with your close circle. Their support can make a difference, and maybe you’ll even find a fasting partner.

Even if it sometimes feels difficult to overcome your inner resistance, the sense of happiness and pride at the end of a successful fasting week is priceless – the true reward for your discipline. That alone is reason enough to consider a fasting week twice a year.