The human body is sacred – the veritable tabernacle of the divine spirit which inhabits it. It is a solemn duty of mankind to develop, protect and preserve it from pollution, unnecessary wastage and weakness.
Knowing that I am different from the body, I need not neglect the body. It is a vehicle that I use to transact with the world. It is the temple which houses the Pure Self within.
If you look deeply into the palm of your hand, you will see your parents and all generations of your ancestors. All of them are alive in this moment. Each is present in your body. You are the continuation of each of these people.
While fasting detoxifies the body, silence purifies speech and brings rest to the chattering mind, and meditation takes you deep into your own being.
Fast regularly and help the body heal itself and stay well. Give all of your organs a rest. Fasting can help reverse the aging process, and if we use it correctly, we will live longer, happier lives.
Hanuman, the devotee of Rama, said: When I identify myself with the body, O Lord, I am Thy creature, eternally separate from Thee. When I identify myself with the soul, I am a spark of that Divine Fire which Thou art. But when I identify myself with the Atman, I and Thou art one.
Mantras purify us and lift us to a higher state of awareness… Chanting also has significant effect on our bodies and minds. Like everything in this universe, our body is made up of vibrating energy.
Keep your body as clean as possible, your mind as clear as possible. That’s all you need. And do it in any way you can, in your own way. It doesn’t matter. And then you’ll be useful.
