4. Transition To Rational Living

Usually the transitional period is not really difficult—most of the time there are no real problems.

The first bowel movements may be normal and easy—they are usually very dark and malodorous, gradually changing to a normal color and losing the foul odor. If you experience some difficulty, don't strain or worry—tell your fasting supervisor, who will help you.

After you resume eating, your bowel movements will probably be quite soft, but will gradually progress to the normal consistency.

After a few meals, the faster begins to feel better, and may experience a sense of euphoria. S/he is so happy to have successfully culminated the fast—so happy to be enjoying the pleasures of food again. There may be delusions of returned strength and well-being, and the desire to do something foolish, like indulging in strenuous activity. But, actually, the dizziness and weakness retreat only gradually. One must come back slowly. The body will appreciate being allowed time to gradually adapt to the new situation.

Johnson says that the miraculous power of the fast produces "unquenchable exuberance" and enthusiasm for life, especially for a period immediately after breaking the fast. He says, "The gourmet does not know the true feeling of tantalized taste buds until he has broken a fast of at least several days on any simple food." All fasters and all fasting supervisors will agree with Johnson's eloquent expressions of the euphoria experienced after the fast.

If one has not fasted to completion, the tongue will gradually clear—it usually takes several days (sometimes longer) to eliminate the coated tongue and bad taste.

Dr. Shelton says, "Bed rest should be continued through the first week of eating and activity begun very gradually. It is common for the faster to want to become active as soon as he resumes eating. This is unwise. He is not so strong and he does not have the endurance he thinks he has. Some fasters want to take long walks as soon as eating is resumed. Such activity is often indulged in to the extent that it retards recuperation and causes the individual's weight to stand still. One must take it easy for a few days before becoming normally active."

As vigor gradually returns, one should begin—cautiously at first—taking short walks, and some easy exercises. It is very important to gradually build up the capabilities for vigorous exercise, in accordance with the condition of the body, as this will assist restoration of the normal digestive ability.

The ability to process and assimilate food will be greatly enhanced following a fast and its proper termination, and after an initial period of adjustment. Resting after each meal will also greatly enhance digestion, weight gain, and renewed vigor.