How to do asceticism: a non-standard way to fulfill desires
1 August 2025 04:03
Recently, one can often see posts on social media about so-called “austerities” that help achieve a certain goal or promote spiritual growth. For it to work, it is important to follow a number of strict rules. "Komersant Ukrainian" explains how to take up asceticism correctly
Asceticism is becoming an increasingly popular tool for achieving goals.
What is asceticism: where does the term come from and what is the essence of asceticism?
Asceticism is a conscious self-restraint, refusal to do something or adoption of good habits in order to improve oneself, develop discipline and spiritual growth. It is believed that this spiritual practice helps to achieve certain goals and desires.
The term “asceticism” itself comes from the Greek word “askesis,” which means exercise or training. Previously, this word was used exclusively in the context of physical training, but over time, it also acquired a religious connotation and began to be used to refer to spiritual practices.
At the same time, the main difference between asceticism and ordinary or forced restrictions is that asceticism should be a conscious choice of a person, designed to help in the process of self-improvement and self-work.
How to take up asceticism: basic rules and examples of asceticism
First of all, you need to decide on the desired results and the routine that you plan to give up in order to achieve them, or vice versa, on the good habit that you plan to introduce into your life. In addition, it is important to set a specific timeframe for how long you will adhere to the restrictions.
It is advisable to undertake austerity for a period of at least 21 days, as it is believed that it is during this period of time that you can develop a habit.
The most popular examples of asceticism are giving up bad habits such as smoking or drinking alcohol, giving up sweets, starting regular sports, reading daily, etc. However, if the essence of austerity is to add new habits, it is important to establish clear rules that you will follow during austerity, for example, to do at least three workouts a week or read at least 10 pages a day.
After formulating the rules of asceticism, you need to write them down on paper or at least mentally recite all the basic conditions, mentioning your request, object, and time frame. After the end of your chosen period of austerity, you need to thank yourself for all your efforts and let go of your wish with the thought that it will come true when the time comes.
How to formulate your request to get the desired result
There are a few basic rules to follow when setting goals and formulating your request, in particular, your goal should be:
- Measurable. If you want to lose weight, it is important to specify the weight or parameters you want to achieve. If your goal is related to your income, you need to specify a clear amount of money you want to earn.
- Realistic. When formulating goals and desires, you need to take into account your current situation and available opportunities. If you don’t have any source of income, you shouldn’t expect to have 1 million in a month.
- With a challenge. While the goal should be realistic, it should also be a challenge for you.
Thus, the more clearly your goal is formulated, the more likely it is to be realized. At the same time, it is important to believe in the power of asceticism and to strictly follow all the established rules in order for your wish to really come true.
What happens if you break the asceticism: why it is important to follow the established rules
Some people believe that breaking the rules of penance can have certain negative consequences. However, even as a result of breaking the rules of asceticism, nothing bad will happen to you, although it may negatively affect your self-esteem. If you perceive asceticism as strict restrictions, then breaking its rules can lead to feelings of guilt, weakness, lack of willpower, and self-doubt.
If you break austerity, it is important not to beat yourself up for it, but to continue to follow its rules. It is important to remember that asceticism is primarily a tool for self-improvement and spiritual growth. Therefore, you should not dwell on the negative, but instead draw the necessary conclusions and move on, avoiding further breakdowns.
In any case, asceticism should not be taken lightly, as this spiritual practice can help on the path to self-improvement, lead to significant spiritual and physical changes, and help develop one’s willpower and discipline.
Author: Olya Yushko
