paaston

Paaston is a Finnish term referring to the practice of fasting, that is, abstaining partially or fully from food or certain items for a period. The noun paasto denotes the practice itself, whereas the genitive form paaston is used in phrases like "paaston aika" to refer to the fasting period or to describe "of fasting." Fasting has deep historical roots in many religious and secular traditions and has taken varied forms.

In religious contexts, paasto is most prominently associated with Christianity, especially the Lenten season leading up to Easter; adherents may fast, renounce certain foods, or increase prayer and almsgiving. Similar fasting periods appear in other faiths: Islam emphasizes daytime fasting during Ramadan, Judaism observes fast days such as Yom Kippur, and Hinduism and Buddhism include periods of fasting or dietary restrictions. In secular contexts, paasto-like practices are undertaken for health, detoxification, or weight-management goals, sometimes framed as intermittent fasting or time-restricted eating.

Common methods range from complete abstinence from food for a limited time to partial fasting, such as restricting meals or avoiding particular foods like meat, dairy, or sweets. Schedules vary from hours to days or weeks, and exemptions are commonly allowed for children, illness, pregnancy, or medical guidance. The practice often intersects with cultural traditions, seasonal observances, and personal discipline, with meanings and rules that differ across communities.