health
February 22, 2026
EASTER FAST BEGINS TOMORROW! Here's what those who must eat meat for health reasons should do
The time of the Great Fast, which is underway, brings with it a specific character, full of repentance and sadness for sins.
TL;DR
- The Vaskršnji post (Easter Fast), the longest and strictest Orthodox fast, begins tomorrow and lasts seven weeks.
- It is a time of spiritual and physical abstinence in preparation for Easter, commemorating Jesus Christ's 40-day fast.
- The fast involves abstaining from meat, milk, eggs, and animal products, with most days being 'on water'.
- The most rigorous days are the first week and the final week (Strasna sedmica), with special emphasis on prayer.
- Beyond food, the fast emphasizes abstaining from negative thoughts, words, gossip, and quarrels.
- Those unable to fast for health reasons are advised by St. John Chrysostom to practice charity, prayer, and actively listen to God's word.
- For those exempt from fasting, overcoming malice, making peace with enemies, and spiritual diligence are considered true fasting.
Continue reading the original article