My 3-Day Fasting: Physical, Mental, and Spiritual Journey
The Curiosity That Led Me Here
Fasting has always intrigued me. From intermittent fasting to water fasting, I have been drawn to both the physical challenge and the potential for mental and spiritual growth. Over the years, I experimented with different fasting schedules, typically ranging from 12:12 to 18:6, but had never pushed beyond my comfort zone.
A Personal Health Challenge
My journey took an unexpected turn after a serious head injury in August 2024, resulting in a concussion. Despite an apparent recovery by October, symptoms resurfaced in late January 2025—brain fog, short-term memory loss, and lack of focus. This setback became the catalyst for deeper exploration into fasting.
Discovering the Healing Power of Fasting
Through extensive research, I discovered fascinating benefits of extended fasting. Beyond weight management, fasting has shown remarkable potential in enhancing overall health and longevity. Studies suggest that fasting can help reduce concussion symptoms by decreasing neuroinflammation, improving brain function, and promoting cellular repair. It also aids in alleviating brain fog, allowing for clearer thinking, improved focus, and mental sharpness.
Additionally, fasting supports gut health by giving the digestive system a much-needed break, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, and reducing gut inflammation. It helps address insulin resistance by stabilizing blood sugar levels, increasing insulin sensitivity, and reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
One of the most intriguing aspects of fasting is its ability to trigger autophagy, a natural cellular cleaning process where the body removes dead and damaged cells, paving the way for regeneration and improved function. This process has been linked to longevity, a reduced risk of neurodegenerative diseases, and even potential anti-aging effects.
More Than Just a Physical Challenge
This endeavor was not solely about physical endurance; it was an opportunity for spiritual growth and self-discovery. How would I respond when hunger set in? Could I enhance my meditation practice? What hidden aspects of myself might emerge?
The Fasting Experience: A Raw and Unfiltered Journey
Day 1: The Calm Before the Storm
The last meal was on Sunday night, around 7 pm. The following morning began unexpectedly smoothly. I went for a long walk, my mind clear and my body feeling light. Gentle movements were deliberate, as heavy exercise was off-limits. Work served as a distraction, keeping my mind engaged. It felt like a normal morning of mild hunger, patiently awaiting breakfast.
However, as night approached, everything changed. Around midnight, a wave of physical discomfort hit me—headache, nausea, and light-headedness. Multiple bathroom trips became routine as my body processed the excess water I'd consumed.
One particular bathroom visit was alarming. Upon standing, the room spun. My blood pressure seemed to plummet, prompting genuine concern over whether I'd made a mistake. Dizziness took over, accompanied by a cold sweat. This was more than mere hunger—it was complete physical distress.
Day 2: The Internal Battle
If day one was a gentle introduction, day two was an intense struggle. My body demanded nutrition. Every cell broadcasted a desperate message: "FEED ME!" Headaches throbbed behind my eyes, body aches mimicked marathon fatigue, and my mood flactuated between angry and very angry. I was ready to surrender.
People often say the second day of fasting is the hardest, and now I understood why. Concentration became a monumental task. I stared at computer screens, willing myself to focus. Meditation became essential—not the serene practice I was accustomed to, but a raw and gritty form of mental endurance.
Electrolytes were crucial like salt, magnesium, anything to maintain balance. I drank water constantly, feeling simultaneously bloated and dehydrated. Cabin fever set in, with every thought revolving around food—images of burgers, pasta, and donuts teasing me constantly.
Day 3: The Unexpected Transformation
Then, like magic, everything shifted. I woke up feeling different. The headache had vanished. Energy, once a distant memory, returned. Not just physical energy—a crystal-clear mental focus I hadn't experienced in months.
That morning's meditation was profound. During a breathwork session, something extraordinary occurred. I drifted, feeling both present and detached. At one point, I observed myself, sitting beside me, peacefully ensuring all was well. It was a strange, out-of-body experience, grounded yet profoundly free and grounded.
Hunger persisted, but it had lost its grip. I was no longer enslaved by cravings. Instead, I observed my body's sensations with newfound calm and curiosity.
Breaking the Fast: A Delicate Dance
Breaking a multi-day fast requires as much intention as the fast itself. I prepared bone broth simmered for 24 hours, accompanied by coconut water and fresh berries. Surprisingly, the anticipated explosion of flavors was subtle. The first sip of coconut water was refreshing but not the heavenly experience I'd imagined. The bone broth tasted merely adequate.
My body seemed recalibrated, processing food with newfound wisdom and restraint.
Reflections and Future Horizons
This experience extended beyond a dietary experiment. It was a journey of physical endurance, mental resilience, and spiritual exploration. I am now convinced that regular fasting will become a cornerstone of my wellness practice.
Looking ahead, perhaps a seven-day fast or more frequent 24-48 hour fasts. The possibilities are exciting, with infinite potential for growth.
