As I integrate the following principles into my life, I live with more peace, purpose, presence, and patience—both in and out of the gym. These reflections are not prescriptions, but invitations to observe, question, and grow.
From Self-Inflicted Suffering to Freedom: Embracing Non-Attachment
We are most imprisoned by beliefs that bind us to what we want and blind us to what is. Because I recognize the impermanence of emotions and experiences, and reduce the influence of ego and expectations. Release from attachment and recognizing he impermanence of all things—emotions, experiences, identities—creates space for freedom.Example 1:
A man sees himself as financially savvy. One night, he splurges on a fancy dinner to impress a date. She casually remarks, “Must be nice not to worry about money.” He becomes angry, not because of her words, but because they threaten the identity with which he is bound.Example 2:
You forgot to bring your earbuds to the gym. The workout feels off. But it’s just one hour, one session. It will pass. Next time, you’ll double-check your bag. No need for frustration—just presence and focus on now.
Example 1: Driving, I recognize that when will get to my destination depends on what I do now. Being aware of my surroundings means an accident is less likely, and I can be sure to get there safely. I also see that I am “here” because of the causes and conditions of the past- filling my gas tank this morning, that person who gave me space to merge a mile ago, etc.
Example 2:
During a workout, I give each set my full attention. This moment is powerful. This rep matters. That mindset builds confidence and consistency.
No one is truly independent. Every moment is shaped by countless causes and conditions. Each part of life is a stage in a multifaceted and continuous sequence of events. But within that web, our choices are our own—and they are powerful.Example 1:Your last meal in the outcome of the causes and conditions that allowed that plant or animal to live, be harvested, processed, and transported to what you put in front of you. However, your choice in what you ate is 100% yours, you made that decision in your mind. Although you may have been influenced, that is because you allowed it.Example 2:
You may not control your schedule, your energy, or your environment. But the choice to move your body, to care for it—that’s yours. Even a 10-minute walk is a declaration of self-respect.
Differentiating what can be changed and what I can’t, I can act wisely where warranted and find peace with what I cannot change.Acceptance is not giving up—it’s seeing clearly. It’s the foundation for wise action by adapting skillfully to reality. I view acceptance as a stepping stone on a path to beneficial action and resignation as a wall.
Example 1:
A train derails. The conductor doesn’t despair—he calls for help, adapts, and continues the journey.Example 2:
You injure your shoulder. Resignation says, “I can’t work out.” Acceptance says, “I’ll train my legs and core while I heal.”
Expectations are like tinted glasses—they color everything. When we remove them, we see reality more clearly and respond more wisely.Example 1:
You meet someone new. Instead of judging them based on past experiences or assumptions, you stay open. You respond to who they are now, not who you expected them to be.Example 2:
You expected to be further along in your fitness journey. But when you drop the expectation, you see the real progress you’ve made—and keep going with renewed clarity.
Most things in life aren’t black or white—they’re gradients. When we stop labeling and start observing, we can look with clarity, seeing truth and beautiy.Example 1:
You see a painting and think, “That’s ugly.” But look again. Can you find something beautiful? The colors? The emotion? The story?Example 2:
Body image is a personal challenge. I am transitioning from disliking my appearance by challenging myself to seeing what I like. My eyes, my chin, etc. I view my body as a symbol of my capabilities, my legs → I can walk! My hands→ I can pet my cat! My mouth → I can show kindness with a smile!Example 3: An exercise is feeling particularly difficult. You might think, “Man, this is the worst!” and write it off as a never-again experience. Or you could think, “This burns! But that must be engaging XZY muscles well!”
These reflections are drawn from my own experience in understanding and integrating these concepts into my life. As I continue to practice, I feel my abilities to enjoy, embrace, adapt and progress have strengthened. Please note this is specific to me; I am not claiming to be a role model. I have not been in your shoes, and you have not been in mine. I hope that you can find inspiration to experiment and improve your life!Wisdom and fitness are both practices. And every moment is a chance to begin again.
