In Hinduism, 'fasting' (Vrat and Upvas) is not merely about abstaining from food. Rather, it is a powerful means of purifying the body, mind, and soul. When combined with a deep analysis of our ancient Puranas, a beautiful confluence of the religious and scientific significance of fasting becomes apparent.

Here are the benefits of fasting, explained in detail with references from the Puranas:
1. The Literal and Spiritual Meaning of Fasting
The word 'Upvas' is composed of two words, 'Up' (near) and 'Vas' (to reside). It means to reside near God. The Agni Purana clearly states that fasting does not merely mean keeping the digestive fire (Jatharagni) at rest. Rather, it means spending time in the presence of the Supreme Being by conquering one's ten senses. This fills the soul with sattvic (pure) qualities.

2. Physical Purification and Health (Reference from Padma Purana)
Scientifically, fasting is a process of detoxification. According to the Padma Purana, just as impurities are removed from gold when it is heated in fire, similarly, fasting destroys the toxins within the body. Ayurveda and the Puranas believe that fasting one day a week gives rest to the digestive system and increases immunity.

3. Mental Concentration and Willpower
The Skanda Purana, while describing the glory of the 'Ekadashi Vrat', states that fasting reduces the restlessness of the mind. When we learn to control our most basic needs, such as food, our willpower increases remarkably. This discipline mentally prepares us to face the greater challenges of life.

4. Purification of Karma and Self-Realization
The Garuda Purana and Shiva Purana mention that fasting on special dates (such as Purnima, Amavasya, or Shivaratri) reduces the effect of accumulated negative karma. During fasting, when we speak less and observe silence, we get an opportunity for self-reflection. This helps in overcoming vices like anger, greed, and attachment.

5. Remedying Planetary Defects
Fasting holds great significance from both an astrological and mythological perspective. According to the Bhavishya Purana, fasting on different days of the week (such as Monday for Shiva, Thursday for Vishnu) mitigates the negative effects of the corresponding planets. For example, fasting on Sunday, dedicated to the Sun God, bestows health and vitality upon the individual.

What does the Padma Purana say?
According to the Padma Purana and Shiva Purana, fasting is a form of penance that makes a person physically healthy, mentally peaceful, and spiritually advanced. It is the path of self-control that leads the devotee away from the self and towards the Supreme Being (God). Fasting performed with true devotion not only makes the present life happy but also eases the path to the afterlife.

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