In my faith, we have a very serious tradition of fasting. This can be from fasting all foods, or something that is in your life a lot, such as soda, Facebook, or anything else that you feel you “Can’t live without” but you really could. We must know what it is like to be without so that when we have that item back, we know how much it meant to us OR how little it really affected us. You will be surprised how much happier you will be once you have fasted something.
Well, for the month of July we choose something to fast. The tradition to not eat leavened bread (Yes, very Jewish sounding), but Paganism is not as far from many of the Judeo-Christian rituals as people care to notice. As is any case, you can choose whatever you want to fast. Last year I fast meat and was vegetarian for the month of July.
The fasting symbolizes a physical sacrifice which shows dedication and suffering. The next part is to wear a head covering during the day-time hours. This means when the sun comes up, you cover your head, I crocheted a beany for my head covering. If you want a more traditional look then you can look up some styles online for head coverings and such.
The head covering symbolizes reverence. It is a sign of respect to the God and Goddess and a beacon to all that are around you that you are hiding your head for a reason.
If you feel you would like to do this, then you should! It is very spiritually uplifting and a powerful way to bring yourself closer to the God and Goddess.
The reason this month is important for fasting is because in August, the Lammas celebration come about which is the symbol of the God dying and the harvest. We fast so that we have a good harvest and to get ready for the death of the God.
If you have any traditions such as these or will be fasting something this month, please comment below and share your story. If you have an entirely different tradition, please post it also!
Have a wonderful day!
Blessed Be!