Embarking on a Bigu (avoiding grains or food) workshop—an ancient Chinese fasting practice—was met with bewilderment from my family and friends. Why would a healthy and slender individual like myself choose to participate in such a workshop, especially when it involves paying not to eat?
As a seasoned journalist covering the healing arts, with over 700 articles under my belt, I make a point to delve into topics I have substantial knowledge about. Despite being well aware of Bigu’s health benefits extending beyond mere weight control, I felt compelled to explore it firsthand. The workshop, hosted by Dr. Kevin Chen—a retired scientist from the medical school of Maryland University and Associate Editor in Chief of “Chinese Medical Qigong”—offered a wealth of expertise and drew participants from diverse backgrounds.
The three-day workshop, conducted via Zoom due to Dr. Chen’s current location in China, brought together 29 participants, with a mix of newcomers like myself and seasoned attendees. The cohort comprised mostly mature adults, including instructors of Tai Chi, Qigong, yoga, Reiki, as well as healthcare professionals such as Chinese medicine doctors and culinary medicine specialists. Despite geographical disparities, we bonded over a shared goal—to achieve a successful Bigu experience. Communication outside the sessions was facilitated through the WhatsApp mobile app, where experienced practitioners offered guidance and support.
The Bigu process unfolds in three stages. Prior to fasting, we received instructions on how to prepare ourselves, including techniques for gulping Qi (bio-energy). Individuals with specific health concerns were provided tailored advice. Armed with mineral water as an energy source, along with bananas and apples as backup snacks, I felt ready to tackle the challenge.
The fasting commenced on the evening of Thursday, March 14th, following a preparatory meeting the night before, which alleviated any lingering apprehensions among participants. Even though I don’t have diabetes or other health issues, sometimes hunger leaves me irritable, or causes physical tremors at times. I was surprised to find myself unaffected during the fasting period. Dr. Chen explained that the practice of “Gulping the Qi” might have contributed to this, as a full Qi diminishes the desire for food—an insight drawn from the practices of Buddhist and Daoist monks.
Far from mere fasting, Bigu embodies a holistic approach to wellness, incorporating elements of nature, self-adjustment techniques, and spiritual elevation. Daily sessions led by Dr. Chen included Qigong exercises, meditation, and self-massage, infusing us with vitality. Evenings were dedicated to lectures on the history, theory, health benefits, and the spiritual enlightenment of Bigu, augmenting our understanding and empowering us to navigate the fasting journey intelligently.
Listening to our bodies, as advocated by Dr. Chen, allowed participants to extend the fasting period based on comfort levels. I would fast longer if my schedule allowed. I completed three and a half days, some chose to prolong their fasts, with one participant enduring a remarkable 14 days, who is a Qigong instructor and had undergone Bigu 19 times. Post-fasting, we transitioned into a recovery phase, gradually reintroducing food while adhering to specific dietary guidelines to aid detoxification and digestive readjustment. We were taught how to prepare kale salad and nappa cabbage soup to consume and no animal products, i.e. eggs, meats. We should never eat too much and 70% full is ideal. He also provided information on general eating guidance, anti-aging and anti-fat diet, Glycemic Index of foods, energy diet for four seasons, Ten best foods for weight loss, and weight watching suggestions.
Reflecting on my experience, I observed a modest weight loss of 4% of my body weight followed by subsequent regain, alongside improvements in skin texture and sleep quality. However, there were two moments of dizziness, remedied with saltwater and half of an apple. Dr. Chen elucidated the health benefits of Bigu, citing scientific studies that underscore its efficacy in improving health. According to him, the health benefits of Bigu realizes in the following way: when people fasting 12 – 14 hours, body begins fatty-acid based metabolism to lose weight; 14 – 16 hours, body produces more growth hormone (HGH); 16 – 18 hours, body begins autophagy to reboot immune system; 72 more hours, body generates more stem cells or rejuvenation process starts. Additionally, brain health improves with cognitive enhancement.
Despite its myriad advantages, Dr. Chen cautioned against hasty endeavors into Bigu, emphasizing the importance of physical and psychological preparedness, gradual progression, and medical consultation—especially for individuals with preexisting health conditions.
For me, the Bigu workshop served as a transformative journey, prompting a deeper appreciation for this ancient art. Given the opportunity, I would gladly undertake it again, eager to delve further into its intricacies.
Fascinating piece. I shared your experience with my elder son who is a health coach and interested in intermittent fasting and fasting over longer periods
Like father like son. It is wonderful that you both contribute to other people’s health and wellness.