The moment of Ramadan that will soon arrive, of course, has made Muslims prepare themselves to undergo fasting which will last a full month. But the fact is, even though it is carried out every year, it turns out that there are still many people who don't know much about the benefits of fasting.
Yes, besides being obligatory, fasting in the month of Ramadan also has benefits for health, both physically and mentally. Perhaps the benefits in terms of physical health have been discussed quite often on various occasions, both in writing and orally.
In the following, we will describe some of the mental health benefits of fasting compiled .
Practicing Self-Control
When fasting, we choose not to eat consciously, even when hungry. Yet eating is a fairly basic survival requirement.
If we are able to resist the desire to survive which is quite basic, it is very likely that the ability to control other desires that are less basic will certainly develop.
Increase Confidence
From a neurochemical point of view, fasting can increase levels of catecholamines, a type of dopamine, which can increase feelings of happiness and self-confidence. These chemical compounds are also able to reduce anxiety.
Reduce Depression
Fasting can increase levels of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) which can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's and cognitive disorders. In addition, many doctors believe that high levels of BDNF can also prevent depression.
Improve Cognitive Function
Fasting can improve cognitive function which makes it easier for us to analyze bad habits and make important decisions in life. Fasting can help us maintain the right perspective on the important things in life thereby ensuring we are on the path we want to be.
Stabilizing Emotions
Fasting can also stabilize our emotions. This happens because when fasting we break away from dependence on food and drinks, especially those that are too stimulating and have a negative effect on our emotions, such as foods or drinks that contain caffeine, processed sugar, fat, or cigarettes that contain tobacco.
That's five benefits for mental health. Although fasting is synonymous with Muslims, that doesn't mean you who are not Muslims can't do it. In the world of health, you can do intermittent fasting, which is fasting that you can set your own time.