![](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://hktv.in/video/the-purpose-of-discipline-is-not-to-torture-ourselves-but-to-transcend-ourselves-gita-daily/&media=https://hktv.in/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/the-purpose-of-discipline-is-not.jpg&description=Based on Bhagavad Gita Chapter 06, Text 28
The idea of discipline often evokes in us an inaudible sigh, if not an audible groan -- it appears to be a deprivation, as a form of self-torture.
However, the purpose of discipline is not to torture ourselves, but to transcend ourselves. That is, transcend our lower self -- our impulsive mind that is seduced by the promises of quick pleasures.
This mind impels us towards choices that lead to the underutilization of our potential. When we are in material consciousness, that pleasure-seeking nature is misdirected by our mind towards worldly pleasures. And when those pleasures are restricted, the mind makes us feel that it is a torture for ourselves.
However, even the best material pleasure is insubstantial, in fact insignificant, when compared to the steady fulfillment available at the spiritual level in loving and serving Krishna.
Trying to control the mind merely by negating its impulses is neither pleasurable nor sustainable. That's because we are pleasure-seeking beings, for as souls, ananda is a part of our intrinsic nature.
Read More -<a href=" http://www.gitadaily.com/2013/10/10/the-purpose-of-discipline-is-not-to-torture-ourselves-but-to-transcend-ourselves/" target="_blank"> http://www.gitadaily.com/2013/10/10/the-purpose-of-discipline-is-not-to-torture-ourselves-but-to-transcend-ourselves/</a>)
Based on Bhagavad Gita Chapter 06, Text 28
The idea of discipline often evokes in us an inaudible sigh, if not an audible groan — it appears to be a deprivation, as a form of self-torture.
However, the purpose of discipline is not to torture ourselves, but to transcend ourselves. That is, transcend our lower self — our impulsive mind that is seduced by the promises of quick pleasures.
This mind impels us towards choices that lead to the underutilization of our potential. When we are in material consciousness, that pleasure-seeking nature is misdirected by our mind towards worldly pleasures. And when those pleasures are restricted, the mind makes us feel that it is a torture for ourselves.
However, even the best material pleasure is insubstantial, in fact insignificant, when compared to the steady fulfillment available at the spiritual level in loving and serving Krishna.
Trying to control the mind merely by negating its impulses is neither pleasurable nor sustainable. That’s because we are pleasure-seeking beings, for as souls, ananda is a part of our intrinsic nature.
