Ayurveda emphasizes that when our digestion, sleep cycles and emotional & sexual expression are all in balance, we have more energy to fulfill the four goals of life—ultimately creating a positive cycle while deepening our engagement with what truly matters.
Ayurvedic philosophy asserts that every individual possesses four fundamental motivations, known as purusharthas. Rather than abstaining from satisfying these desires for pleasure, success and purpose, or material gain – we can confidently pursue them with joy in our hearts. The Ayurveda teachings offer guidance on how to maintain balance while striving towards total health and wellbeing through holistic exploration of the soul’s goals. By cultivating conscious awareness & spiritual understanding accompanied by service-mindedness – one may lead a more integrated life full of fulfillment as well as enlightenment.
Kama is an ancient concept, teaching us to appreciate and find pleasure in life with self-awareness, moderation and non attachment. We can tap into a deep reserve of sensory satisfaction from the natural world; by simply enjoying its beauty we reap physical benefits at the same time! Achieving Kama involves recognizing how momentary joys are meant to be savored for what they are – fleeting moments that leave lasting memories as reminders of our connection to Nature’s abundance. Just like a flower blooms, it also dies. Remaining open without clinging allows true happiness rooted in appreciation rather than neediness – because everything essential will always return again…if only you’d trust it would!
Artha is more than just material security and wealth; it encompasses the total sum of our environment that leads to a fulfilling life. Deeply rooted in Ayurveda, Artha includes knowledge, friendships, love, career growth opportunities and skillset development – all which provide us with not only financial abundance but an overall sense of ease as we move closer towards uncovering true self-actualization. Without this tangible comfort around finances or health however, life can be taxing – leaving minds overly anxious & distracted from both mental clarity & intellectual pursuits alike.
Dharma is our true purpose in life. We each have our own unique dharma – a virtuous and moral path that brings purpose to our lives, serving both ourselves and society. According Ayurveda teachings, when we are not living this truth within us, inner peace will elude us. To fully express who we truly are at the deepest level though requires more than just knowledge: it takes stillness of mind so as to discern what is really calling out from inside us. Dharma can take on many forms – spiritual or material – but no matter how varied its shape may be ultimately all serve as paths for deepening self-awareness towards growth in spirit.
Moksha or liberation is an inward exploration of our true self in order to liberate us from material desires, suffering, and the repeating cycle of samsara. Through meditation and conscious living we can gain wisdom that will help connect us more deeply with freedom’s sweetest bliss. As we deepen our understanding of who we are as individuals, it becomes clearer what choices will support true emancipation – yet not without peril; too attached to this idea of freedom or liberation may leave us vulnerable to developing holier-than-thou spiritual egos. Instead let’s encourage ourselves lovingly embrace and bear witness to both pleasure and pain while taking delight in life’s temporal magnificence along the way towards final enlightenment.
Many Blessings!
In Gratitude,
Michelle
Michelle Berry 