I’ve given hundreds of public lectures about my humanitarian work over the years in over 60 countries. Usually, I focus on the social impact our volunteers have made, including the enormous amount of meals served by these selfless souls. The statistics never fail to impress but at the Vegfest in Brazil in 2018 I decided to focus on the why rather than the what.
I boldly broached the topic with the somewhat sensational title: A former monk shares an inside secret. Right out of the gate I talked about the fact that during the prime years of my life 19 – 33 I lived the life of a celibate monk, this includes sleeping on the floor without a pillow, taking cool showers; only eating at regulated times of the day, and of course, abstaining from sex and all the typical hedonistic things young men do. How did I succeed? The shocking answer is that I learned how to control the urges of the tongue.
My spiritual teacher often told us, “Spiritual life begins with the tongue.” I later clarified that statement by asserting that
“Evolution of consciousness begins when one masters the tongue.”
According to the yoga tradition, the tongue has two functions: tasting and vibrating, so what you speak and what you eat dramatically impacts your level of awareness.
I go into great detail in my book, FOOD YOGA to prove this point, citing scientific research as well as references from the yogic tradition and of course my personal example speaks volumes. Even if you don’t accept my references, my experience is my experience and I know for a fact that through controlling the tongue it enabled me to be successful in controlling the sex urge and living a peaceful and stress-free life.
But getting back to the why does Food for Life Global only serve plant-based meals cooked with loving intention? It is because when food is prepared with a loving consciousness it has incredible power to transform the consciousness of those that eat it. And in this way, not only is Food for Life Global feeding stomachs, it is directly impacting the mood and awareness of our recipients to bring about a more peaceful and loving world.
The bottom line is, hunger is not a result of a lack of food. Hunger is directly related to the fact that the bulk of humanity has a selfish and divisive consciousness and thus the resources of the world are not equitably shared.
That day that every living thing is honored equally as an integral participant in the play of life, wherein all things are valued for their unique contribution and viewed as essential and not disposable, then and then only can we have peace and prosperity for all and social anomalies like hunger will cease to exist.
Enhance the introduction by briefly mentioning personal motivations for celibacy to create a more relatable hook for readers.
Include a specific anecdote or personal experience related to mastering the tongue that illustrates its impact on your celibacy journey, making the concept more tangible.
Add a concluding paragraph summarizing the key insights and encouraging readers to reflect on their own lives and choices regarding food and consciousness.
What does it mean to control the urges of the tongue?
Controlling the urges of the tongue involves being mindful of what we eat and say, as both significantly influence our consciousness and overall well-being.
How can plant-based meals impact consciousness?
Plant-based meals prepared with love can elevate the mood and awareness of those who consume them, fostering a more peaceful and compassionate society.
What is the connection between celibacy and a peaceful world?
Celibacy can lead to greater self-control and awareness, allowing individuals to contribute positively to society and work towards creating a more peaceful and loving world.
My personal journey into celibacy was fueled not just by a desire for spiritual growth, but also by the need to cultivate deeper relationships with myself and the world around me. The pressures of societal expectations often cloud our judgment and distract us from what truly matters. By stepping away from the pursuit of romantic entanglements, I found a unique opportunity to explore my passions and dedicate my energy to meaningful humanitarian work. The decision was not merely about abstaining from sex; it was about embracing a life of purpose and connection, free from the distractions that often accompany intimate relationships.
One pivotal moment in my journey came during a period of intense craving. I vividly remember attending a gathering filled with laughter, delicious food, and engaging conversations. Amidst the joyous chaos, I felt the familiar tug of desire. In that moment, I consciously chose to focus on the conversations around me instead of indulging in my cravings. I began to practice mindful eating and speaking, taking a moment to savor each bite and engage fully with those around me. This experience reinforced my belief that mastering the tongue—both in what I consume and how I communicate—was essential for maintaining my celibacy and nurturing my inner peace.
Ultimately, my journey has shown me that the path to a peaceful world begins with individual choices. By reflecting on how we nourish ourselves and interact with others, we can create ripples of change that extend far beyond our own lives. Each meal, each word, and each conscious decision contributes to a larger tapestry of love and compassion. I encourage readers to consider their own habits and reflect on how they can cultivate a life that honors not just their own well-being, but also the well-being of all living beings. Together, we can work towards a world where peace and prosperity are not just ideals, but realities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to control the urges of the tongue?
Controlling the urges of the tongue involves a mindful approach to both our dietary choices and our spoken words. It means being aware of what we eat and ensuring that our food choices promote health and well-being, while also being conscious of how our words affect ourselves and others. This control can lead to greater self-discipline, heightened awareness, and ultimately, a more fulfilling and peaceful life. By mastering the urges of the tongue, we can cultivate a lifestyle that aligns with our spiritual goals and contributes positively to the world around us.
How can plant-based meals impact consciousness?
Plant-based meals, especially those prepared with love and intention, can significantly elevate the mood and consciousness of individuals. When food is made with care, it carries a transformative energy that nourishes not just the body, but also the mind and spirit. Consuming such meals fosters a sense of community and compassion, as they often reflect values of kindness and sustainability. This mindful approach to eating can shift one’s perspective, encouraging a more peaceful and harmonious existence, both personally and collectively.
What is the connection between celibacy and a peaceful world?
Celibacy, while often seen as a personal choice, can have broader implications for societal peace. By practicing celibacy, individuals can cultivate greater self-control, focus, and awareness, which can enhance their ability to contribute positively to society. This self-discipline allows for a deeper understanding of one’s own desires and motivations, leading to more compassionate interactions with others. When many individuals choose paths of self-restraint and mindfulness, it creates a ripple effect, promoting a culture of peace, respect, and love that can transform communities and, ultimately, the world.
The Food Yoga Academy is now offering Food Yogi level 2 certification, however, students will have first completed level 1 to be eligible.
The Food Yoga Academy, the brainchild of International director of Food for Life, Paul Rodney Turner (aka Priyavrata das) has officially launched.
