Self-denial

Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
Not to be confused with Non-self.

Self-denial (related but different from self-abnegation

better source needed
]

Positive effects

There is evidence brief periods of fasting, a denial of food, can be beneficial to health in certain situations.[5][6] Self-denial is sometimes related to inhibitory control and emotional self-regulation, the positives of which are dealt with in those articles.[7] As people grow accustomed to material goods they often experience hedonic adaptation, whereby they get used to the finer things and are less inclined to savor daily pleasures. Scarcity can lead people to focus on enjoying an experience more deeply, which increases joy.[citation needed]

Negative effects

Others argue self-denial involves avoidance and holding back of happiness and pleasurable experiences from oneself that is only damaging to other people.[8] Some argue it is a form of micro-suicide because it is threatening to an individual's physical health, emotional well-being, or personal goals.[9]

Religion and self-denial

Self-denial can constitute an important element of religious practice in various belief systems. An exemplification is the self-denial advocated by several Christian confessions where it is believed to be a means of reaching happiness and a deeper religious understanding, sometimes described as 'becoming a true follower of Christ'. The foundation of self-denial in the Christian context is based on the recognition of a higher God-given will, which the Christian practitioner chooses to adhere to, and prioritize over his or her own will or desires. This can in daily life be expressed by renunciation of certain physically pleasureable, yet from a religious stand-point inappropriate activities, sometimes referred to as 'desires of the flesh', which e.g. could entail certain sexual practices and over-indulgent eating or drinking. In the Christian faith, Jesus is often mentioned as a positive example of self-denial, both in relation to the deeds performed during his life, as well as the sacrifice attributed to his death.

See also

References

  1. ISBN 0-8070-3611-0
    . Retrieved September 2, 2011.
  2. ISBN 978-0-8204-8195-1
    . Retrieved September 2, 2011.
  3. ISBN 0-664-25812-3
    . Retrieved September 2, 2011.
  4. ISBN 0-8143-2828-8
    . Retrieved September 2, 2011.
  5. S2CID 39700065
    .
  6. ^ Knapton, Sarah (5 June 2014). "Fasting for three days can regenerate entire immune system, study finds". Telegraph.co.uk.
  7. ISBN 978-1-84169-087-2
    .
  8. ISBN 978-1-85575-605-2
    .
  9. ISBN 978-0-471-27264-9
    .
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Self-denial&oldid=1093151783"