Fasting & Sleep Deprivation

Ascetic Paths to Altered States

Historically, monks, shamans, and vision quest seekers have used fasting and sleep deprivation to weaken the body's hold on the mind. By denying biological needs, the brain chemistry shifts—increasing alertness, vividness of dreams, and susceptibility to spiritual visions. While effective, these methods require caution and respect for the body's limits.

Core Principles

Key Concepts

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Autophagy

The body's cellular cleanup process activated during fasting.

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Ketosis

Metabolic state using fat for fuel, often producing clarity and euphoria ("faster's high").

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Vision Quest

Indigenous rite of passage involving isolation and fasting to receive life guidance.

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Hypnagogia

The hallucinatory state between wakefulness and sleep, extended by sleep deprivation.

Exploration

Safe Practice

Direct experience is the only way to understand an altered state. Here are ways to explore fasting & sleep deprivation safely.

Intermittent Fasting: Start with 16:8 windows before attempting multi-day fasts.

Stay Hydrated: Water and electrolytes are critical.

Listen to your body: Dizziness or fainting is a sign to stop.

Do not drive or operate machinery during severe sleep deprivation.

Use these states for meditation or prayer, not productivity.

Why Explore This?

The Benefits

Mental Clarity

Fasting often clears "brain fog" after the initial hunger passes.

Spiritual Sensitivity

The "thinning of the veil" between the material and spiritual worlds.

Discipline

Mastering the body's impulses strengthens the will.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is sleep deprivation safe?

Chronic deprivation is very harmful. Acute, intentional deprivation (e.g., for a vigil) should be done rarely and with recovery planned.

Q: How long should I fast?

For spiritual purposes, 24-72 hours is common. Longer fasts require medical supervision.

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