Austerity
is
the third niyama. Austerity simply
means that on all levels; physically, verbally and intellectually we should
develop the power to withstand hunger, thirst, heat, cold and other earthly
discomforts so as to attain the unattainable. Without hardships and challenges
we never develop self-discipline and self-discipline is needed to attain contentment
and thus happiness.
When you over eat, over drink, over spend, or over
worry do you ever feel content and happy? Austerity means to keep our mind focused, your
words meaningful and your deeds soulfully powerful. Over indulgence ultimately
leads to pain. We need balance.
Austerity means to practice self-discipline. It means
to stop the mind from clinging to desires. Although it may seem painful and
difficult to stop the mind from running after pleasure in the end it will bring
you happiness.
No one wants to experience pain, but if truly understood,
when someone hurts you, you will thank them because they have given you a great
opportunity to practice strength and stability. It is much easier to give pain than to receive
it and remain calm. It takes tremendous strength to not react and instead learn
from the experience. Austerity means a steady calm mind no matter what the circumstances.
Words are very important. They should be spoken with
tranquility, be truthful, pleasant and beneficial. If something is true and
unpleasant, make it pleasant. From your mind practice compassion and understanding.
Then act with self-control.
The Gita a Sanskrit Hindu text points out three
types of austerity; dull, passionate and calm. Those who are inflexible will
become dull. Those who practice with the intent of acquiring something are passionate
and those who are without desire for any result other than to be content and balanced
find calmness. What is gained through dullness and passion will not endure, but
that which is attained through calmness purifies and strengthens the body, the
mind and the soul. It will endure through all of life’s hardships. Let’s practice.
Be moderate in all your activities. Balance your
work, play and soulful pursuits so as not to exhaust you. The body and the mind
cling to desires. This exhausts our energy and depletes the soul. When we practice austerity we cleanse the body
and the mind and uplift the soul. It is like gold; the more you fire it the
purer it gets. So accept what comes into your life with a sense of calmness and
you will understand the significance of austerity. What is gained through
calmness will endure no matter what the situation should bring.
Doctor Lynn
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