I’m sure you know by now that fasting can be a great way to improve your health, but it can also be a challenge. One of the biggest challenges is boredom. Only when you start fasting, you realize how much of your time is dedicated to buying food, preparing it, and eating. When you’re not eating, it can be hard to find things to do to keep yourself occupied. Being prepared is the best way to make it work.
The best way is to… keep busy.
Below are a few tips for getting over boredom while fasting:
Start the fast after the evening meal so you’re full. If needed, go to sleep early on fasting days. If you sleep 8-9 hours and have an evening routine of one to two hours, ( shower, reading, stretching…) there you have it, 10 to 11 hours of your fast goes very fast. Sleeping is the best way to not think of food.
Keep the usual routine. I like fasting on a regular working day because it keeps me busy with… work. The weekend in our house is very not normal and we eat more then usual so I rather not fast on the weekend.
Make sure you have plenty of “things to do” so you just move from one activity to another and don’t have a moment spare to fill it up with… food. Make a written list to move from one thing to the other for example: Books to read, talk to someone on the phone, go for a walk, watch a movie, clean, do art, workout, computer games, gardening.
Drink plenty of fluids to get over the mouth boredom. Drink water, tea, coffee ( obviously no sugar) bone broth… When you think of food, drink. You’ll discover that many of us think “hunger” when we are actually thirsty.
Avoid triggers. If there are certain foods or situations that trigger your cravings, try to avoid them during your fast. For example, if you know that you’re more likely to snack when you’re watching TV, avoid watching TV during your fasting window.
Talk to someone. If you’re struggling with boredom or cravings, talk to someone you trust. They can offer support and encouragement.
Boredom is a common challenge when fasting, but it doesn’t have to ruin your experience. By following these tips, you can stay busy, hydrated, and well-rested, which will help you to get through your fast without feeling bored or deprived.
Here are some extra tips that may help:
1. Set realistic goals. If you’re new to fasting, start with a short fast and gradually increase the duration as you get more comfortable. You’re competing yourself not anyone else.
2. Be patient. It takes time to adjust to fasting. Don’t get discouraged if you find it difficult at first. Just keep at it, and eventually you’ll get the hang of it.
3. Don’t give up. There will be times when you want to give up. But remember why you’re fasting in the first place. It is for your health. Fasting is a rest to your gut and your body will thank you. Keep your goals in mind, and don’t give in to temptation.
Wishing you constant progress in your quest to a happy, healthy life and easy fasting.
Make your day a great day!
Ronit
Whole food Revolution’s Happiness coach
https://www.behappyinlife.com
http://ronitbaras.com
