I decided to try something different tonight so I’m having dinner at a Breatharian restaurant. It may not look like much at first glance, but this is a Dungeness crab mist with cooked spinach fog and sweetened tart apple whisps. Only $35 including tax and tip. All you can smell on Sunday nights after 7 pm. The fork and spoon are just to make people accustomed to American food more comfortable.
Brief History of Breatharians
Historical Context
Ancient Roots
Breatharianism, also known as inedia, is the controversial belief that humans can live without consuming food or water, subsisting instead on “prana,” a concept from Hinduism referring to vital life energy. The origins of breatharianism can be traced back to ancient spiritual practices, particularly within Buddhism and Hinduism, where ascetics and mystics claimed to sustain themselves through spiritual means during times of scarcity.
Modern Revival
The contemporary breatharian movement began to take shape in the late 20th century. Notable figures include Wiley Brooks, who gained fame in the early 1980s after appearing on television and claiming he had not eaten for 17 years. His assertions led to the establishment of the Breatharian Institute of America. However, the term “breatharian” itself was popularized in 1972 by civil rights activist Dick Gregory, who discussed it in a satirical context regarding dietary extremes.
Jasmuheen’s Influence: Perhaps the most prominent advocate of breatharianism is Jasmuheen (born Ellen Greve), who emerged in the 1990s. She authored Living on Light, promoting a program that purportedly allows individuals to transition to living solely on light and air over a three-week period. Despite her claims, several deaths have been linked to her teachings, raising significant ethical concerns about her influence.
Scientific Perspective
Breatharianism is widely regarded as a pseudoscience by medical professionals. Scientific consensus supports that humans require food and water for survival; prolonged fasting leads to starvation and dehydration. Despite this, some practitioners continue to assert that they can thrive without traditional nourishment, often citing anecdotal evidence or spiritual experiences.
Conclusion
The history of breatharianism reflects a complex interplay between ancient spiritual beliefs and modern new-age movements. While it has attracted attention and followers, it remains a highly controversial practice with serious health risks associated with its adoption.
Read More
[1] http://www.whistlingshade.com/1801/Dining_With_the_Breatharians.htm
[2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWRniMqhr00
[3] https://encyclopedia.pub/entry/31091
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inedia
[5] https://rationalwiki.org/wiki/Breatharianism
[6] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jasmuheen
[7] https://www.vice.com/en/article/a-brief-history-of-breatharianism-which-is-total-bullshit/