Experience shows that a blind man generally has a stronger memory, and certain of his senses are more developed than those of an ordinary man who has sight. In other words, if certain faculties are not utilized, they may strengthen some other faculties. Similar is the relation between the body and the soul. When an individual fasts, his conscience pricks him in the face of evil deeds, and he is more able to resist temptations. Further, the fasts make him think of the Creator more, develops his inclinations for charity and makes him taste the sweetness of obedience to the Lord.
Employees work for six days of the week, the seventh day being a holiday for leisure and rest.
Even the machines and tools require relaxation, and we observe this for motor cars, aeroplanes, locomotives etc. It is, therefore, not reasonable to think that the stomach and the digestive organs do not also require rest. In fact, modern medicine has also reached the same conclusion. A large number of doctors in Switzerland, Germany, etc., prescribe for various chronic diseases, fasting, for longer or shorter period according to the exigencies for the sickness and the physical capacities of the sick person. They have also found that various glands secrete certain acids in the stomach on account of hunger and thirst.