Why Fasting?

Minor Sacrifice for Collective Impact

• In times of need and distress, all traditions ask for sacrifice – a practice that aligns with the principles of environmental renewal, restoration and regeneration.

• A collective small sacrifice of two meals a month makes a big difference for the earth and all its creatures and other living things.

Rooted in History and Practice

Fasting has been an important practice among humans since ancient times. Fasting for spiritual and practical purposes can be found in the history and current practice of nearly all cultures and religions.

Fasting Promotes & Enhances Health

Since the fifth century BCE, fasting has been used as a powerful therapeutic practice to foster physical, mental, and spiritual health and well-being.  

Calling for Hope & Promoting Justice

Historically, fasting has been undertaken to prepare for holy events, unify communities, counter injustice, promote peace and seek forgiveness. In brief, fasting can be undertaken for any personal or collective purpose that leads to a positive outcome.

Cultivating New Habits for the Environment

Like the Christian Lent, Jewish Yom Kippur, and Muslim Ramadan, fasting on behalf of the planet can strengthen old devotions and build new behaviors– like recycling, saving water, and using less energy — that improve the planet for all.