Asceticism

Asceticism

The meaning of the word goes back to the verb askeo (Greek), which in ancient culture meant skillful and diligent processing of rough material, decoration or home improvement, or an exercise that develops bodily and mental strength.

In spiritual traditions, this is a type of spiritual practice, deliberate self-restraint, self-denial, or the fulfillment of difficult vows, sometimes including self-torture. The purpose of asceticism is control over natural instincts. Ascesis redirects energy, prana from the sphere of ordinary instincts and body work to the sphere of consciousness, which develops the soul, reveals the Atman.