Fasting and meditation are ancient practices for good reasons.
They are tools for probing the boundaries of one's own existence, perhaps the most powerful tools for doing so without having major life-altering consequences. Included in the latter category are birth, death, marriage, parenthood, and all the battles therein which at their best produce war-torn, but steady and wise veterans. Emptying and filling yourself over and over again without intention takes its toll. Doing it with presence and love brings catharsis, cleansing, and restoration. This is true physically, spiritually, and emotionally. It may serve in the detachment of one's ego, not to abandon it, but to better understand, cherish, and nurture it, as you would an arrogant and spiteful toddler. Discipline, whether of self or of others is always beneficial, but only when offered through tears of love and compassion for self or others.
