Asceticism, in simple terms, is a string of intentional lifestyle choices characterized by practising self-discipline, abstention from indulgence, and if wished, a focus on spiritual and personal growth. In today’s fast-paced world, the concept of asceticism might seem outdated or irrelevant. Underpinning this fall is a belief that you may do pretty much anything in the privacy of your own life so long as it doesn’t hurt others. However, understanding and applying ascetic principles can significantly equip us live a more meaningful and joyful life, enhancing our inner discipline, and capacity to resist temptations and build self-respect and inner strenth.
The challenges of modern life and the many distractions on offer often lead us to seek self- indulgences and comfort in habits that may not be beneficial in the long run. Whether it’s excessive screen time, unhealthy eating, excessive materialism or other addictive behaviours, including pornography, gambling and online gaming. These habits of over-indulgence erode our self-control and self-identity, leading to an inner weakness rather than building inner strength and yes virtuous living. Acedia or the ‘noonday demon’ is a deeply embedded idea in human civilisation and is said to be that demon that will visit us tempting slothful behaviour. As the Star Wars character, Obi Wan Kenobi would put it, “It’s the way to the dark side”. Asceticism offers a genuine pathway to regain control and foster a healthier, more balanced life. Before we pick up our light sabre, watch this cautionary YouTube on the difference between insane and sane ascetic practices.
The second preliminary tip is to start small and be selective. Don’t demand or expect too much at the beginning but you must work at being consistent, building up slowly. The Jedi mind trick is to learn to savour the small acts of self-denial as an achievement in and of itself. For people of faith, the act of ‘dying to ourselves’ or denying our will and passions for the sake of God and others, may serve as an offering while adhering to one’s values and beliefs. Don’t attempt something if you’re not prepared to fully embrace the inconvenience of that self-denial or discipline. For instance, driving under the speed limit on a particular journey; or not eating any sweets on the day. Remember the truism, ‘From little things, big things grow”. Starting with small achievable acts is best.
Here are three practical guidelines which can assist you personalise your selection:
1. Embrace Minimalism/Simplicity
Minimalism is about simplifying your life by focusing on what truly matters and eliminating excess. Living a life of simplicity by minimizing material possessions and physical comforts. It encourages you to prioritize experiences / relationships / wisdom over material possessions. This might include wearing simple clothing, avoiding luxury items, and living in modest accommodations. And if the wisdom of stoicism appeals, then perhaps you might even pick up a copy of Meditations by Marcus Aurelius.
– How to apply it: Begin by decluttering your living space. Remove items that no longer serve a purpose or bring you joy. This process can be liberating and help you focus on what is essential. Additionally, practice saying no to unnecessary commitments and activities that drain your energy. By embracing minimalism, you can create a more intentional and fulfilling life.
Marie Kondo’s philosophy for simplifying revolves around the KonMari Method™, which is designed to help individuals declutter and organize their living spaces to create a more joyful and fulfilling life. Here are some key principles of her philosophy-you’ll need to set aside 13 minutes to watch, otherwise read the principles below: https://youtube.com/watch?v=iTmGiKKEOlE
- The Joy Sparking Criterion: Marie Kondo encourages you to keep only those items that truly spark joy in your life. Surrounding yourself with things that bring you happiness can foster a naturally joyful environment where clutter and negativity cannot manifest.
- Gratitude and Respect for Possessions: Kondo emphasizes the importance of expressing gratitude for your belongings and treating them with respect. This mindset shift allows you to develop a deeper appreciation for the things you own.
- Tidy by Category, Not by Location: Unlike traditional decluttering methods, the KonMari Method emphasizes tidying by category rather than room by room. The five main categories are clothing, books, papers, komono (miscellaneous items), and sentimental items.
- Visualize Your Ideal Lifestyle: Before embarking on your tidying journey, it’s essential to visualize how you want your living space to look and feel. This visualization exercise will serve as a guiding light throughout the tidying process.
2. Practice Mindful Consumption
Mindful consumption involves being aware of what you consume, whether it’s food, media, or other resources. It means making conscious choices that align with your values and long-term goals.
– How to apply it: Start by setting specific limits on your consumption. For example, allocate a certain amount of time for social media use each day and stick to it. When it comes to food, choose nutritious options and avoid mindless snacking. By being mindful of what you consume, you can reduce the likelihood of developing addictive habits and enhance your self-discipline.
3. Cultivate Daily Rituals
Daily rituals are consistent practices that bring structure and meaning to your day. They can be simple activities that promote well-being and self-reflection.
– How to apply it: Establish a morning routine that sets a positive tone for the day. This could include activities like meditation, journaling, sitting quietly absorbing the natural light while reading or a short exercise session. Similarly, create an evening ritual to both unwind and reflect on your day. These rituals can help you build willpower by providing a sense of stability and purpose, making it easier to resist temptations and addictive behaviours.
Incorporating ascetic principles into your life doesn’t mean you have to renounce all pleasures or live a life of deprivation. Instead, it’s about finding balance and making intentional choices that support your overall well-being. By practicing mindful consumption, embracing minimalism, and cultivating daily rituals, you can strengthen your willpower, enhance your self-respect, and avoid the pitfalls of addictive habits.
Asceticism is often a lifestyle characterized by abstinence from various worldly pleasures, often with the aim of pursuing spiritual goals. I would also assert that ascetics is not just about abstinence but also actions taken. For instance, a workout routine at the gym or bike riding or a power walk before work can be done in such a way that I believe is ascetic. There is a price to pay when we commit to certain decisions.
Here are some examples of what daily ascetic practices might look like in everyday life:
1. Fasting: An ascetic might practice fasting regularly, abstaining from food and drink for certain periods to cultivate discipline and focus. Fasting can also be selective both in terms of food type and time. For instance, abstaining from meat on Fridays doesn’t mean you can’t eat does it. Alternatively fasting can be for specific periods of time, say four hours on certain days you choose. And if it does have health benefits that doesn’t mean it’s not an ascetic act. A regular drinker may act upon the need to have a least one dry day a week to detox. A great ascetic act on their part with a healthier outcome.
2. Prayer/Meditation: Daily meditation/prayer sessions can help ascetics achieve a clearer and more profound understanding of themselves and the world around them, bringing themselves closer to their beliefs / values and that inner place where things are renewed or born deep within. Indeed, duc in altum, go out into the deep, as inner reflection and reappraisal are keys to improving psychological wellbeing. Embracing silence is certainly another aspect of ascetics.
3. Self-Control: Deliberately abstaining from indulgences and pleasures to train the mind and body to resist temptation. Restricting the number of beer stubbies that are consumed on an occasion or coffees per day or the amount of screen time. Young people are currently spending on average 50% of their time on social media/screen time each day. Practices like celibacy or refraining from certain activities such as pornography are also examples of asceticism.
4. Commitment to Values: Prioritizing spiritual and personal growth over material gains and societal approval. This conscious decision to live according to one’s values and principles reinforces a sense of self-respect and dignity.
Ready to take the first step towards a more disciplined and truly joyful life? Start your journey today!
Click on the YouTube Schopenhauer’s Asceticism & Aesthetics – His Solution to Life’s Suffering and spend the next 7’ 14” minutes diving a little deeper into asceticism.
Dr. Erika Sigurdson exploration of the general history of asceticism in Western thought and is a more academic dive for those so inclined. She discusses why people are drawn to acts of self-denial and restriction and examines the practices of early Christian monks. This one will take you 21 minutes. https://youtube.com/watch?v=CDp7XPGh65w
Alternatively, jot down 5 ideas for yourself on a small piece of paper and put it in a handbag, wallet or the console in your car, somewhere that you will regularly come across. Don’t try to do too much when first beginning your journey. Let it build slowly from within.
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