Mental preparation is an essential part of therapeutic fasting. It begins with the conscious decision to embark on a period of inner contemplation and physical cleansing. Preparing yourself mentally for fasting also means informing yourself about the challenges and benefits ahead and preparing yourself emotionally. It can be helpful to practise specific techniques such as meditation, mindfulness exercises or diary writing to strengthen self-awareness and promote a positive and focused state of mind.

Physical preparation for therapeutic fasting should begin two to three days before the start of the fast. During this period of fasting days, it is recommended to eat light, well-tolerated foods such as potatoes, brown rice, millet, oatmeal, fruit, vegetables (including raw vegetables and soups) with oils and little salt. Meat, sausages, fish and cheese should be reduced. You should avoid stimulants such as alcohol and sweet and savoury snacks altogether and slowly stop drinking coffee. This will make the transition to the fasting period easier. Sufficient fluid intake and light physical activities such as walks or gentle yoga can also be beneficial to prepare the body for fasting and to calm down both internally and externally.