8.7. Consequences of Disharmony

When the Self lacks right understanding:

This introductory line sets the stage for discussing the consequences that arise when there is a disconnect between the Self and the body. It emphasizes the importance of right understanding which refers to the clarity and insight one has about their own needs and actions. Without this understanding, there can be negative repercussions on both the physical and mental aspects of a person.

Imagine a driver who doesn’t understand how to operate their car properly. If they are unaware of how the controls work, they could easily cause an accident. Similarly, if a person does not understand their needs or the needs of their body, they may make harmful choices that lead to poor health or stress.

The body may be overused or abused.

When individuals do not have the right understanding from the Self, they may push their body beyond healthy limits. Overuse can manifest as excessive exercise or activity without adequate rest, while abuse could involve neglecting the body's signals for care, like ignoring pain or fatigue. Both behaviors stem from a lack of awareness or understanding of the body's actual needs.

Consider a student who studies late into the night every day, believing they need to work harder to succeed. They ignore their exhaustion and eventually burn out, which is a form of body abuse. Just as a car cannot function well if driven relentlessly without maintenance, the body also needs proper care to remain effective.

Unnecessary desires may lead to addiction, stress, and disease.

Unnecessary desires refer to cravings that are not essential for well-being, such as the desire for excessive luxury or indulgence. These desires can lead individuals to seek temporary pleasures that don’t contribute positively to their life, often resulting in addiction. Stress can arise from the constant pursuit of these fleeting goods, which can adversely affect mental and physical health, opening the door for diseases.

Think of a person who frequently seeks comfort in unhealthy foods when they are feeling down. Instead of addressing emotional issues, they indulge in sweets or junk food. This habit might lead to weight gain and health issues, illustrating how unnecessary desire for comfort can result in negative consequences.

Poor health decisions (junk food, no exercise) reduce efficiency.

When the Self does not guide the body appropriately, individuals may make poor health choices, such as choosing unhealthy foods or avoiding physical activity. These choices not only affect physical health but also diminish overall efficiency, leading to decreased energy levels and lower productivity in daily activities. The body requires balanced nutrition and exercise to function optimally.

Imagine trying to run a marathon on a diet of only junk food. While it might feel good at first, the body would soon lack the necessary nutrients to perform well. This scenario serves as a parallel to how failing to nourish our physical bodies effectively leads to poor overall performance in life.

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