Episode 92: Fasting for Fulfillment with Aubrey Ghafari and Dana Thomann

March 3, 2025

Watch on Youtube Listen on Apple Podcasts

Welcome to another installment of the Mental Mettle Podcast, where host Coach Matt Thomann embarks on a new Monthly Mettle Challenge – this time, exploring the often misunderstood practice of fasting. This episode dives beyond the dietary aspects, revealing how fasting can unlock mental clarity, boost self-discipline, and even deepen spiritual connections.

Fasting: More Than Just Missing Meals

Coach Thomann acknowledges his initial hesitation about this challenge. As a self-proclaimed "big guy" who loves to cook and eat, abstaining from food felt daunting. However, he approaches it with an open mind, eager to discover the potential mental and spiritual benefits.

The Mental and Spiritual Dimensions of Fasting

This episode challenges the notion of fasting as mere deprivation, instead positioning it as an intentional practice for gaining clarity and self-control. Matt explains how he is hoping it will break some of his bad habits.

Coaching Guidance from Aubrey Ghafari

To navigate this challenge, Coach Thomann enlists the guidance of Aubrey Ghafari, an ICF-certified coach from Larong, who helps him clarify his intentions and develop a specific plan. Their coaching session explores:

Identifying the "Why": Understanding the underlying motivations for fasting beyond weight loss.
Shifting the Mindset: Reframing fasting as an opportunity for growth rather than a form of punishment.
Creating a Practical Plan: Developing a sustainable approach to fasting that aligns with individual needs and goals.

Dana Thomann weighs in

Dana and Matt talk about ways that fasting is incorporated into their religion, and how important it is.

Biblical and Spiritual Connections

The episode also delves into the rich history of fasting in religious traditions, particularly within Christianity. Coach Thomann explores how fasting is woven throughout scripture as a means of seeking God's guidance, strengthening one's faith, and fostering spiritual renewal.

Unlocking Potential Benefits

Whether you're a seasoned faster or simply curious to learn more, this episode invites you to view fasting through a new lens – as an opportunity for:

Enhanced Mental Sharpness: Breaking free from food-related distractions to sharpen focus and clarity.
Increased Self-Discipline: Strengthening willpower and self-control through intentional abstention.
Deeper Spiritual Connection: Creating space for reflection, prayer, and connection with something greater than oneself.
Intentionality: Learning how to be intentional about what you eat and when.

Is Fasting Right for You?

This episode encourages listeners to approach fasting with careful consideration and guidance, particularly for those with underlying health conditions. It emphasizes the importance of listening to your body and finding a sustainable approach that supports your overall well-being.

Ready to Explore the Power of Fasting?

Tune in to Episode 92 of the Mental Mettle Podcast to discover how fasting can be a powerful tool for self-discovery, spiritual growth, and mental toughness.

Contact Coach Thomann at coachthomann@gmail.com for a free coaching session!

Are you ready to forge your mettle?

More From Mental Mettle

Mental Toughness: More Than Grit — It’s a Toolkit You Can Grow

In the high-pressure world of sports, business, and life, “mental toughness” is a phrase that gets tossed around a lot. But what does it really mean?

Episode 111: Tips for Mastering the Mental Game with Coach Brandon Beery

How do elite athletes and coaches rise above the noise, pressure, and setbacks to achieve peak performance? In Episode 111 of the Mental Mettle Podcast, Coach Matt Thomann and fellow mindset coach Brandon Beery break down the science and art of mastering the mental game.

Episode 110: Passion for the Process with Jarrett Brown and Lane Thomann

What does it really mean to “trust the process”? In Episode 110 of the Mental Mettle Podcast, Coach Matt Thomann dives deep into this question with basketball player Lane Thomann and Coach Jarrett Brown. Together, they unpack what the “process” truly is, why it matters, and how embracing it can transform athletes and teams from the inside out.

Unlock Peak Performance: The Power of Mental Skills Training for Athletes and Teams

In today’s sports world, the difference between a good athlete and a great one is rarely just about physical ability. The real edge comes from what happens between the ears—mental toughness, focus, and resilience.

Episode 109: JT Welch, playing with confidence and a chip on his shoulder.

In Episode 109 of the Mental Mettle Podcast, Coach Matt Thomann sits down with JT Welch, a recent Milikin University standout and new assistant coach at Bloomington Central Catholic. JT’s story is a powerful example of how confidence, preparation, and a relentless drive can help you overcome the odds—no matter your size or the challenges in your path.

The Five Pillars of Transformational Coaching: Servanthood, Humility, Ownership, Unity, and Thankfulness

In the world of sports, success is often measured by wins and losses. But for Coach Josh Williams of the Clinton Lady Maroons, true victory comes from building a culture rooted in five essential pillars: servanthood, humility, ownership, unity, and thankfulness.

View all