Fasting is a Biblical principle that is approached for the reasons you mention. I had no idea that Hindus embraced it, too. This was a great post on the subject. I've fasted different things, like the internet, too. It helped me to clear my cluttered mind. When you fast something and the urge to have it strikes, you think about why you are doing it and pray instead. I recently did a fast while praying for our country. I've been on the 16/8 intermittent fasting regimen for a couple of years now, and I am healthier and happier. Fasting is a good thing. 😊