I started following the Greek Orthodox Lenten fasting schedule[0] even though I am not Greek Orthodox. In this context, fasting means refraining from the consum

I started following the Greek Orthodox Lenten fasting schedule[0] even though I am not Greek Orthodox. In this context, fasting means refraining from the consumption of specific things. It basically boils down to a vegan diet with no alcohol and minimum oils (e.g. olive oil) during various periods of the year. I found following this schedule really helped keep me in check even without the religious component. After my first observance of the fast, many new habits stuck with me: • I only drink on weekends socially with others (save for occasional exceptions such as a birthday during the week) • I never drink alone • When I drink, I follow each drink with a glass of water and completely stop myself if I start feeling tipsy • I gave up meat and eventually dairy, eggs, and fish (in that order) because I felt so good during the fast Now, elements of the fast has become a bit more permanent in my life apart from the strict periods of no alcohol and no oil. Although, I do not have to battle alcohol addiction, I found periods of fasting really helped me gain a greater control of myself and what I regularly consume. It may seem odd for a non-religious person to follow, but I think there were good reasons the Greeks have historically followed this schedule that have led to a healthy lifestyle. Regardless of possible health benefits[1], following a fasting schedule really helps keep me in check and prevent my past behaviors of over-indulging in pleasurable things (for me that was primarily an over consumption of meat without consideration of the negative side effects from that behavior). [0] https://www.goarch.org/-/when-you-fast https://www.goarch.org/-/when-you-fast [1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC156653/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC156653/