It’s amazing to me - how greedy these bodies we have are for sensory stimulation. But we can begin to witness and observe such behavior. I think more than not, we have to treat these bodies as restless children needing some observation and discipline.
Yes; on the other side, why no to throw the dog a bone, as Sri Yukteswar said to the disciple who was fasting too much? Raja Yoga is the path of moderation and balance.
The body must be disciplined but the body also needs a little stimulus to go on plodding and doing its duty.
Yes I find that one stimulation that helps is lighting incense a lot during a fast. It gives some added stimulation to the environment when food is not consumed.
Another I have found effective is going for a long walk through nature or taking a drive where you can enjoy nature and not the chaos of the city and suburbia.
I think the key 🔑 is to keep the stimulation going. At least that has been for me. Whether, listening to music, riding, spending time with friends or romance. Any number of stimulating activities, while avoiding tension and frustration related activities. The next day you’ll be so encouraged by your accomplishment…and if you can come out of the fast slowly, you will feel doubly rewarded!
