Stress, asceticism, and indulgence can impart pathological stress if not practiced properly according to the principles of Total Stress Management. Some people pretend to be ascetics to gain popularity as spiritual leaders, but true spirituality requires an objective and holistic perspective aimed at blossoming of all. Arbitrary asceticism or indulgence due to peer pressure can stunt the growth of a truth seeker and make them unjust, intolerant, and petty.

1. STRESS
ASCETICISM
AND
INDULGENCE
DR.
SHRINIWAS
KASHALIKAR

2. Many of us feel that seeking truth is synonymous with
asceticism. Naturally; some of us are tempted to capitalize on
our notion; and show that they are ascetics! They pretend to
have no physiological or material needs (even if they indulge
secretly). We revere these people for their asceticism (whether
apparent or real; but irrespective of their contribution to
global welfare)! He or she; thus becomes a popular spiritual
leader.
Physiologically; it is absurd to glorify/hate the asceticism, or
indulgence. It is a different matter altogether; to evaluate the
consumable commodities; from health point of view; or on the
basis of their effect on consciousness. Seeking the truth (which
is what spiritualism is); essentially implies objective and
holistic perspective and striving for the blossoming of all!
In absence of study and practice of Total Stress Management
(the core of which is NAMASMARAN); the arbitrary and
coercive asceticism or indulgence; due to; for instance; peer
pressure; imparts pathological stress on a seeker of truth, who
gets stunted and remains unjust, intolerant, prejudiced and
petty.