It is one of the types of Langhana. The word Langhana, is majorly used to indicate Upavasa (Fasting) whereas it has a broader aspect.
अत्किन्चित् लाघवकरं देहे तत् लङ्घनं स्मृतम् ||
(च.सू. २२/९)
The procedure which makes the body lighter is langhana. Here the word Lighter, not necessarily indicates weight reduction but is considered more accurately as feeling of being lighter.
BENEFITS OF FASTING
पुण्यप्रदो ह्यामदोषहरोअनलकरः सदा |
स्फूर्तिदश्चोपवासो वै इन्द्रियाणां प्रसादकः ||
प्रायो व्रतोपावसो हि विधेयः शास्त्रसम्मतः |
धर्म स्वस्थ्यं च लभ्यते वयःस्थौ सुविचारिभिः ||
The above mentioned shloka explains the overall benefits of fasting. It mentions, ‘Fasting is auspicious, cures amadosha, enhances Agni, gives enthusiasm, clearity of sense organs & fasting is pious rule according to texts. It enhances virtuousness, health, life span and good thoughts.’
TYPES OF FASTING
- Nirahara – without taking food
- Sajala – with drinking water
- Nirjala – without drinking water
- Phalahara – with fruits
One should consider his prakriti before fasting.
METHOD OF RELIEVING FROM FASTING
क्रुत्वाशौचादिकं प्रातः लघु भुञ्जीत भोजनम् |
स्निग्धं सुमधुरं रुच्यं मृदुअन्नं साधु साधितम् ||
Next day of fast, After evacuating bowel and bladder one should consume unctous, sweet, tasty, soft and satvika food.
PERSON UNFIT FOR FASTING
One who leaves in hot climatic conditions, who does a lot of physically strenuous work and People who need to have utilize a lot of their brains should avoid fasting.
PERSON WHO SHOULD PRACTISE FASTING
Langhana therapy is administered during the shishira ritu to te patients suffering from sking diseases, urinary disorders, obesity and even vata dosha related disorders.