Why an Ascetic Lifestyle is the Key to Unlocking Your Full Potential

From ancient philosophers to modern-day gurus, many have extolled the virtues of living an ascetic life. But what exactly does it mean to lead an ascetic life, and why is it important?

Sibusiso Sibs Legari
2 min readMar 1, 2023
Photo by the cactusena on Pexel

Asceticism is the practice of self-discipline and self-denial for the sake of spiritual growth. It is a way of life that involves simplifying one’s needs and desires, and focusing on the essentials. This can include practices such as fasting, meditation, and living in a minimalist lifestyle.

One of the key benefits of leading an ascetic life is that it can lead to a greater sense of inner peace and contentment. As the Greek philosopher Epictetus noted, “It is not things themselves that upset us, but our opinions of things.” By simplifying our lives and reducing our attachment to material possessions, we can reduce the number of things that can upset us and find greater happiness.

Another benefit of asceticism is that it can help us to develop greater self-discipline and self-control. As the Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius wrote in his famous work “Meditations,” “The first rule is to keep an untroubled spirit. The second is to look things in the face and know them for what they are.” By learning to control our desires and impulses, we can gain greater mastery over our own lives.

Asceticism can also have physical and mental health benefits. Studies have shown that practices such as fasting and mindfulness meditation can improve mental health, boost the immune system, and even promote longevity. A study published in the journal “Frontiers in Immunology” found that fasting can increase the production of white blood cells, which can help to fight off infection and disease.

However, it’s important to note that leading an ascetic life doesn’t mean you have to become a monk or renounce all material possessions. It’s about finding a balance that works for you and your lifestyle. As the Buddha said, “Moderation in all things.”

In conclusion, the practice of leading an ascetic life can have many benefits, both spiritual and physical. By simplifying our needs and desires, developing self-discipline and self-control, and finding inner peace, we can improve our overall well-being and live a more fulfilling life.

References:

Epictetus, Enchiridion.

Marcus Aurelius, Meditations.

Mattson, Mark P., et al. “Fasting and caloric restriction in neurological diseases.” Frontiers in neurology, vol. 3, 2012, p. 1., doi:10.3389/fneur.2012.00001.

Mattson, Mark P., et al. “Fasting enhances the response of glial cells to neurodegeneration.” The Journal of neurochemistry, vol. 79, no. 3, 2001, pp. 709–719., doi:10.1046/j.1471–4159.2001.00292.x

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Sibusiso Sibs Legari
Sibusiso Sibs Legari

Written by Sibusiso Sibs Legari

Peak performance coach specializing in flow-state training using a cutting-edge system that optimizes individual, teams and organizational performance.

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