YJA Convention 1996 07 San Francisco CA Second

Author(s): Young Jains of America (YJA)
Publisher: Young Jains of America YJA USA

Page 48

Not an extreme fast - just right.
⚫ Helps loose weight.
Creates spiritual experience during paryushana.
3. Difficult aspects
• Initially difficult; headaches and hunger.
Upvas was weakening at the end of the first day.
♦ If one had to cook for others, could not taste food.
It helps if one is occupied whilst fasting e.g. going to work.
♦ Sometimes tempting if others are eating nearby.
The Jain rule of not being able to brush ones teeth during fasting makes one feel uncomfortable.
4. Reflections on the principles of tapas
♦ Good for health but care should be exercised - extremes may not be advisable. Good for developing self discipline and not becoming too greedy at the sight of food.
Helps to control other emotions as well as anger.
It should not be practiced without some prior knowledge and understanding of tapas philosophy.
♦ It should not become a competitive activity.
It is indeed a powerful principle and constant practice reminds one of the ultimate aim in life and the need to control ones passions and desires.
In Jain philosophy, taps destroys past karmas.
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