Fasting the Hildegard Way

A sacred return to divine order and renewed vitality

Inspired by divine revelation, St. Hildegard of Bingen saw fasting as a sacred healing ritual — a return to divine order and a reawakening of viriditas, the God-given greening force and vitality of life within us.

Properly performed, Hildegardian fasting:

• Frees the body from toxins and impurities — detoxification
• Activates and regenerates vitality — bodily renewal
• Clears emotional burdens and mental fog — mental restoration
• Offers rest and clarity to the soul — spiritual awakening

St. Hildegard understood what modern science now confirms: gut health and emotional well-being are deeply connected. Through fasting, we not only purify the body, but also lift spiritual heaviness and restore mental clarity.

Fasting opens a doorway to break free from limiting habits and stagnant patterns. It creates space for a new rhythm — a harmonious way of being. A rebirth toward a focused, revitalized, and more abundant life.

Fasting, together with prayer, carries transformative spiritual power. As Jesus said, “This kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.” (Matthew 17:21)

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Three Types of Hildegardian Fasts

Each fasting path is chosen according to your health, strength, and season of life.

I. Spelt–Fruit–Vegetable Fast (4–6 weeks)

The gentlest form of fasting. Rather than eliminating food entirely, harmful foods are replaced with nourishing, life-giving foods. Three meals per day are allowed.

Not permitted: Animal protein, dairy, and added fats

Allowed:

• Spelt in various forms (porridge, bread, flakes, pasta)
• Seasonal fruits and vegetables
• Herbal teas and nourishing broths

II. Spelt-Reducing Fast (Up to 6 months)

A structured long-term fast alternating between regular Hildegardian meals and reduced food days.

On reduced days, only the following are allowed:

• Spelt bread (eaten whenever hungry)
• Spelt coffee and fennel tea
• A lunch salad with spelt berries

All other foods are excluded on reduced days.

III. Rigorous Fast (6–10 days)

A liquid fast for experienced individuals under the supervision of a qualified practitioner.

Permitted liquids:

• Spelt coffee
• Herbal teas: fennel, nettle, sage, mint, lemon balm
• Apple or grape juice mixed with fennel tea
• Spelt-based vegetable broth
• Plenty of water (avoid plastic bottled water)

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Daily Movement

Gentle daily movement supports every form of fasting. St. Hildegard recommended peaceful walks, light exercise, and time in nature to assist the body’s natural processes without exhaustion.

Movement is medicine.

Helpful Practices During a Fast

• Experience the restorative power of sacred music. Sing, hum, or chant.
• Take Epsom salt baths or apply a liver compress.
• Limit phone, electronics, and social media.
• Prioritize restful sleep.
• Support lymphatic flow with dry brushing and alternating warm and cold showers.
• Step away from unnecessary stress and draining relationships.
• Reconnect with God, yourself, and creation.
• Pray, rest, and receive.

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Fasting is not about deprivation. It is sacred renewal. True fasting is gentle, balanced, and aligned with the rhythms of nature and your unique constitution.

“Just as it would harm the stomach if it were always full or empty, it does the soul harm when the body lives in constant pleasure.”
– St. Hildegard of Bingen

* Research suggests potential benefits of periodic fasting may include weight management, blood sugar support, and cellular health.

** Consult your healthcare provider before beginning any fasting program, especially if you have existing medical conditions.