Many Religions Require Fasting as a Part of Ritual

question 28

Short Answer

Many religions require fasting as a part of ritual.What effects does fasting have upon the individual?

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Definitions:

Parasympathetic

Relating to the part of the autonomic nervous system that conserves energy by slowing the heart rate and increasing intestinal and gland activity.

Somatic

Related to the body, especially as distinct from the mind or emotions.

Peripheral

Referring to the outer boundary or located away from the central part; in physiology, it often relates to nerves and structures outside the brain and spinal cord.

Sympathetic

Relating to, producing, or denoting responses in a part of the body as a result of action in another, particularly in the context of the autonomic nervous system's response to stress.