Looking for Eternal Bliss in Ephemeral things.

We live in a society that prioritizes material possessions and the pursuit of ephemeral happiness. We spend our lives running after the next big thing, only to be disappointed when it fails to bring lasting joy.

Let’s be honest, that new pair of shoes will only make you happy until the next trend comes along. I soon realized that this vicious cycle was endless, and I was only left feeling unfulfilled.

So, how to break this chain? What is the way to unlock true happiness from within and experience eternal bliss?

As the saying goes, “If you want to experience true happiness, look inside rather than outside.” I know this is easier said than done.

Living a minimalist life

We possess materials or we are possessed by the materials is hard to distinguish.

When I was at the ashram for a Yoga course, I learned that possessions are overrated. We weep over a broken vase, but only because we’re upset that it won’t hold our flowers anymore.  And why brood over an expensive car that you cannot afford when you can brood over something truly worthwhile, like the fact that Pluto is no longer a planet?

I arrived at the ashram with nothing but a backpack, minimal clothing, and a little cash. I had never felt so light in my life. Felt light mentally, because I had no material possession to guard; Physically: I got my fat globules on a strict no-touch policy, thanks to two daily doses of yoga and twice-a-day meals. Emotionally: Well, it was a spiritual retreat, so I was at my best.

We were curious, not about the latest iPhone, but about the meaning of life itself. Apart from daily classes, we also engaged in Karma yoga, which is community service for the ashram. We cleaned, cooked, and took care of the ashram without hesitation or shame. We were trying to transcend our ego and dive deeper into the intangible aspects of life.

I agree it is not easy to live carefree in our daily lives but we can always try to unburden ourselves from unnecessary thoughts, worries, and materialistic things. Once in a while, it is a good idea to declutter your mind and focus on the needs rather than the wants, as need is limited and want is limitless.

Have you heard about the 3 peaks of Happiness? Well, here we go…

• The first peak of Happiness- Achievement: It gives instant gratification by releasing dopamine hormone but it is fleeting. it’s like the Mc Chicken of Happiness – it’s cheap, it’s quick, and it won’t last long.

• The second peak of Happiness- Fulfilment: It is a state of contentment. Far more blissful than the previous one. It is like a home-cooked meal – it’s comforting, it’s satisfying, and it’ll leave you feeling warm inside.

• The third peak of Happiness- Liberation: Liberation means the realization of the truth by the removal of the darkness of ignorance. That’s like finding out that you have a secret talent for something you never even knew you could do. It’s the ultimate goal, the cherry on top, the holy grail of happiness.

“A seeker, who is void of desires, transcends the mind and the body and progresses towards Liberation.  A liberated one experiences Ananda, which is ultimate, everlasting, and eternal joy.”

PS: This post is a part of #BlogchatterA2Z 2023