How to do a "bread and water fast"?

[Muzhik]

Greetings! For my spiritual development, I'd like to do a novena that also includes doing a bread-and-water fast for the duration of the Novena. The problem is, I don't know how to do a bread-and-water fast. The only fasting I've done (other than a 36-hour water-only fast I did a few years back) has been the standard "Catholic" fast: only one full meal a day, two smaller meals that don't add up to a full meal, no snacks.

I simply have no idea of what's involved, other than I should only eat bread and drink water. But how much bread at each meal? Can anyone shed some light?

[BVM 1221]

Originally Posted by Muzhik

Greetings! For my spiritual development, I'd like to do a novena that also includes doing a bread-and-water fast for the duration of the Novena. The problem is, I don't know how to do a bread-and-water fast. The only fasting I've done (other than a 36-hour water-only fast I did a few years back) has been the standard "Catholic" fast: only one full meal a day, two smaller meals that don't add up to a full meal, no snacks.

I simply have no idea of what's involved, other than I should only eat bread and drink water. But how much bread at each meal? Can anyone shed some light?

First off, you should clear this proposed fast with your Spiritual Director (if you have one), or with your local Priest. You need to make sure your motives for this fast do not include spiritual pride.

Next, you should have a physical checkup from your Physician, explaining what you are planning to do, and asking for permission and guidelines for doing it. And if the Physician says "no", obey. God loves obediance.

As always, these OPINIONS have not been endorsed by my three cats, who regard fasting as something only dog lovers could invent