Bodily asceticism does not only contribute to purifying the mind: it also hones it, making it lighter and more apt for all its proper spiritual functions. Fasting and vigils in particular have this effect. By purifying and refining the mind, bodily asceticism contributes to moving it towards contemplation. The suffering linked to this ascetic practice is merely the provisional condition for attaining to the delight in the good things of the Kingdom, which will infinitely compensate for this pain: “The sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us (Romans 8:18).”
~Dr Jean-Claude Larchet (Therapy of Spiritual Illnesses vol.2, p.271)
Prayerful Life 