Body is just an instrument for the ‘True Self’ to realize its own true nature. It needs mind to help survive in this world and along with mind it becomes an instrument in gaining true knowledge of the Self.
Body is just a part of the Nature. Nature is one continuous motion of change from one form to another. Within this cycle, there are six fundamental modifications: birth, existence, growth, change, decay, and death. This eternal process ensures that death is seen not as an end, but as a change of form.
In the grand scheme of Nature, the importance of any single body is limited to Nature’s perpetual continuation. It is ironic that, for Nature, the body is not of great importance and neither for the ’True Self’, as the body only acts as an instrument for realization. It is, however, extremely important for the embodied for survival and to free oneself from bondage.
Nature has endowed the body with a unique intelligence that is distinct from the intellect of the mind. This intelligence helps the body survive, adapt, and heal itself. It raises the question of whether this capacity is predetermined and, once fully utilised, the body’s self-sustaining ability fails, leading to decay and death. Consequently, the way we use or abuse the body determines its longevity.
Most of the harm inflicted upon the body is a direct result of the mind’s actions. The body often becomes an instrument for seeking pleasure, with little respect for its inherent intelligence. There is a lack of understanding that the body’s intelligence, especially for survival, far surpasses human intellect. The body, therefore, bears the consequences of the mind’s pursuit of pleasure through sense objects.
A primary form of abuse is overconsumption. For the body, food is simply a necessity, yet the mind seeks pleasure in food and consumes not only excessive quantities but also harmful substances. The body works diligently to digest whatever is consumed, continuing this effort until its power is exhausted.
Even greater harm comes from negative emotions. The body responds to emotions: positive and calming emotions are beneficial, while negative and aggressive emotions require the body to expend more energy to absorb and process. Anger, hatred, envy, greed, and anxiety all elicit reactions in various parts of the body. It is no surprise that stress is a major cause of illness.
Both types of abuse weaken the body at a faster pace than its natural pace. It’s ironic that everyone desires a long life, yet many neglect and abuse the very body that makes it possible!!
