How To Have An Easier Fast During Yom Kippur

For many people, fasting is an important part of their physical and spiritual health.

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Today, millions of Jewish people are observing Yom Kippur, which is the religion’s holiest day. Yom Kippur is a Day of Atonement, and many Jewish people spend the day praying, fasting, and asking for forgiveness for their past wrongdoings. A common greeting for the holiday is “Tzom kal,” which means “Have an easy fast.”

Fasting is an important spiritual practice. Some religious leaders argue that occasional fasting helps them devote their full attention to prayer. But some people may struggle to fast during the entire day of Yom Kippur.

In general, fasting for short periods can be part of a healthy lifestyle. But before you fast, consult with your Rabbi and doctor. If you need to eat to maintain your blood sugar rates throughout the day, then you might need to think about how you can accommodate your medical needs while you worship. Conditions like diabetes and hypoglycemia may make fasting dangerous.

Even if you do not have a regulated diet for your medical needs, you might experience some unpleasant side effects during your fast. In 2019, a team of researchers studied how intermittent fasting might impact a person’s cardiovascular health. This study is not focused on intermittent fasting for spiritual purposes, but some of the researchers’ findings can still be helpful for people who fast during religious holidays. Some of the most common complaints from the study participants include:

How can you ease your fast? First, drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Sipping on water throughout the day can help keep your stomach full, which may alleviate some of your hunger. Second, take breaks throughout the day to do mild activities like walking and stretching. It’s not uncommon for coffee drinkers or nicotine users to feel some withdrawal symptoms, which may cause you to feel irritable or tired. Moving your body can refresh or energize you. Some people use aromatherapy throughout the day to boost their energy and lighten their mood.

If you have specific medical needs, you can work with your Rabbi to find healthy strategies like chewing gum or drinking liquids other than water.

What should you avoid during your fast? Do not do strenuous activities. Avoid getting too hot or too cold, since sweating or shivering uses calories that your body might not have to spare.

When you break your fast, you may be excited to tuck into your favorite foods. Even if the honey cake looks irresistible, remember to pace yourself as you start eating again. You may experience nausea or a stomachache if you eat too quickly. Food Network recommends sipping warm, decaffeinated beverages and taking small bites of carb-rich foods. You can eat fruit, bread, and soup to replenish your blood sugar and fill your stomach.

Yom Kippur encourages Jewish people to prioritize their spiritual well-being. Fortunately, you can also be proactive about maintaining your physical wellness during this day of fasting.