40 Days of Decrease

01What's spiritual fasting all about?

Have you ever thought of fasting as more than just abstaining from food? If your answer is no, then you're in for a surprise. Fasting, as we traditionally understand it, often involves giving up food or certain types of food for a specific period. However, Alicia Britt Chole, in her book "40 Days of Decrease: A Different Kind of Hunger. A Different Kind of Fast," introduces us to a different kind of fasting - spiritual fasting. So, what is spiritual fasting? In simple terms, it's a holistic approach to fasting that goes beyond just food. Think of it as spring cleaning for your soul. It's about decluttering your spiritual life by decreasing habits or thoughts that hinder your spiritual growth. Now, you might be wondering, "What are some habits or thoughts that might be obstructing my spiritual journey?" Well, it could be anything from negative thinking, excessive worrying, to unhealthy attachments. Chole's unique approach to fasting emphasizes decrease in a broader sense. It's not just about giving up food, but also about letting go of those things that weigh us down spiritually. This approach challenges traditional notions associated with fasting. It's not about deprivation, but about creating space for spiritual growth and transformation. Chole shares some of her personal experiences and insights on spiritual fasting in her book. For instance, she talks about how she gave up worry for 40 days. This might seem like a small thing, but it had a profound impact on her spiritual life. It freed her from the constant anxiety and allowed her to experience peace and tranquility. This example shows how this unique approach to fasting can be implemented in our lives. It's not about giving up something for the sake of it, but about consciously choosing to let go of those things that hinder our spiritual growth. The impact of spiritual fasting on spiritual growth is significant. It's like pruning a plant. When you prune a plant, you cut away the dead or overgrown branches to allow for new growth. Similarly, when we decrease or let go of those things that hinder our spiritual growth, we create space for new growth and transformation. It's not about deprivation, but about creating space for growth and transformation. So, are you ready to embark on a journey of spiritual fasting? Remember, it's not about giving up food, but about decreasing those habits or thoughts that hinder your spiritual growth. It's about creating space for growth and transformation. It's a different kind of hunger, a different kind of fast.