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1. UNIT-2
UNDERSTANDING HUMAN BEING AS
A CO-EXISTENCE OF THE SENTIENT
“I” AND THE MATERIAL “BODY”

2. 1.Understanding the needs of self(I) and body
2.Physical facility
3.Understanding the body as an instrument of “I”
4.Understanding the characteristics and activities
of “I”
5.Harmony in “I”
6.Sanyamand Swasthya
7.Correct appraisal of physical needs
8.Happiness and Prosperity
9.Programs to ensure Sanyamand health

3. SELF (“I”)
The self, or "I," refers to the non-physical, conscious entity that experiences emotions, thoughts, desires,
and choices. It is the center of awareness and identity. The self is concerned with intangible needs such as
understanding, happiness, respect, and relationships. While the body is governed by biological and
physical laws, the self is driven by mental, emotional, and spiritual needs
In psychology, the Self is understood as an individual's perception of their own identity and how they relate
to others. It encompasses self-concept, self-esteem, and self-identity
The Self-Concept theory suggests that individuals form a self-image based on their experiences, social
interactions, and personal reflections. This self-image influences their behavior and values (Rogers, 1951).
Self-esteem is a crucial aspect of the Self, reflecting an individual's sense of worth and confidence. High
self-esteem is associated with positive mental health and well-being, while low self-esteem can lead to
various psychological challenges (Baumeisteret al., 2003).
The concept of self-identity involves how individuals define themselves within various social contexts. It
includes aspects such as social roles, personal values, and cultural affiliations (Erikson, 1950).

4. The looking glass self theory developed by American sociologist Charles Horton
Cooley, is a theory of self-perception that explains how people develop their self-
image based on how they think others see them.The theory is based on the idea that
people learn who they are through their interactions with others, and that their self-
image is a combination of their own self-reflection and what others think of
them.According to him, a child could not develop a sense of self in the absence of
others to reflect that self back.
interactions with others serve to form self-identity in three steps:
1.People imagine how they appear to other people;
2.People imagine how others are, thus judging them based on appearance and how
they present themselves;
3.People imagine how others feel about them based on the judgments they make.

5. Knowledge:The self seeks knowledge and understanding of the world and its place in it.
This involves not just intellectual knowledge, but also self-awareness and wisdom.
Happiness: Unlike the body's temporary pleasure derived from external stimuli, the self
seeks lasting happiness, which comes from emotional and spiritual contentment.
Respect and Love: The self has a need to be respected and loved by others, which gives it a
sense of purpose and validation.
Harmony and Peace: The self naturally desires inner peace and harmony with others.
When the self is in disharmony, it results in feelings of anxiety, dissatisfaction, or conflict.
The fulfillment of these needs is not dependent on external factors but on the internal
state of the self and its understanding of its role in relation to others and the world.

6. The body is the physical vehicle through which the self interacts with
the external world. It is governed by biological needs and survival
mechanisms. To sustain life, the body requires specific material inputs
and conditions. These needs are concrete, tangible, and primarily
focused on maintaining health, survival, and physical well-being.
Biological Perspective: From a biological standpoint, the body is a
complex system of organs, tissues, and cells that functions to sustain
life and enable physical activity (Gordon, 2001).

7. Food: The body requires proper nutrition to maintain energy and health. A balanced diet
helps in physical growth, development, and overall function.
Water: Hydration is essential for the body’s vital processes, including digestion, circulation,
and temperature regulation.
Shelter and Protection: The body needs shelter from environmental hazards such as weather,
predators, or dangerous conditions. This ensures safety and protection.
Exercise and Rest: Physical activity keeps the body strong, while rest and sleep allow it to
recover and regenerate.
Health and Medical Care: The body requires maintenance, which includes medical care,
hygiene, and protection from diseases or injuries. The body’s needs are more immediate and
physically measurable compared to the needs of the self.

8. THE INTERCONNECTION BETWEEN THE SELF AND THE
BODY
Though the self and the body have different needs, they are
closely interconnected. The well-being of one affects the
other. If the body's needs are not met, the self cannot
function effectively. For example, hunger or illness may
cause discomfort, reducing the self's ability to concentrate or
experience happiness. Conversely, if the self's needs for
knowledge, love, and respect are not fulfilled, it can result in
mental stress, which in turn can affect the body's health,
leading to issues such as fatigue or chronic illness.

9. Physical facilities refer to the material and infrastructural resources that provide comfort,
convenience, and support in daily life. These include housing, transportation, utilities
(water, electricity), appliances, and technological systems, all of which enhance the
quality of life and contribute to overall well-being (Maslow, 1943).
While emotional and psychological factors play a critical role in human fulfillment,
physical facilities create the necessary environment for individuals to live comfortably,
efficiently, and securely. They fulfill basic survival needs and contribute to the higher-
order pursuit of self-actualization (Max-Neef, 1991).
These include food, shelter, clothing, healthcare, and other resources necessary for
survival and comfort. While essential, physical facilities should not be confused with the
ultimate goal of life. They are merely the means to an end—tools that aid in the survival
and comfort of individuals.

10. IMPORTANCE OF PHYSICAL FACILITIES
1.Basic Survival Needs: Physical facilities provide the foundation for meeting physiological needs such
as shelter, food storage, clean water, and sanitation, all of which are essential for health and
survival (Maslow, 1943).
2.Comfort and Convenience: Facilities such as heating, air conditioning, lighting, and home appliances
ensure comfort by regulating environmental conditions and making everyday tasks more
manageable. These conveniences reduce physical strain and save time (Dunn & Caruso, 2014).
3.Safety and Security: Physical infrastructure like homes with secure doors, windows, and reliable
transportation systems provide a sense of security, reducing anxiety and stress related to safety
concerns (Newman, 1972).
4.Efficiency and Productivity: Modern physical facilities, especially in work environments, such as
ergonomic furniture, proper lighting, and efficient technology, enhance productivity by reducing
fatigue and improving the quality of output (Sundstrom, 1986).
5.Social Interaction and Mobility: Physical facilities like community centers, parks, and transportation
networks foster social interaction, enable mobility, and contribute to social well-being by providing
accessible spaces for communal engagement and travel (Jacobs, 1961).

11. THE ROLE OF PHYSICAL FACILITIES IN
ENHANCING WELL-BEING
Physical Comfort: Comfortable living conditions, supported by physical facilities like
ergonomic furniture, temperature control systems, and personal space, significantly
enhance an individual’s physical and mental well-being (Evans & McCoy, 1998).
Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Physical facilities, particularly those that ensure safety
and reliability, help reduce stress. For instance, secure housing and access to
transportation reduce the uncertainties and anxieties of daily life (Newman, 1972).
Time Efficiency:Modern conveniences such as washing machines, dishwashers, and
transportation systems save individuals significant time in daily tasks, freeing them
to focus on other fulfilling activities like hobbies or social interactions (Dunn &
Caruso, 2014).
Access to Education and Employment: Physical facilities such as transportation
networks and internet connectivity provide individuals with access to education and
employment opportunities, enhancing their socio-economic standing and quality of
life (Litman, 2017).

12. Understanding the body as an instrument of “I”
To understand the body as an instrument of the "I" is to recognize the distinction between the transient
physical form and the eternal self. This perspective fosters self-awareness, non-attachment, and the
cultivation of human values such as self-discipline and compassion. It aligns with the teachings found in
many spiritual and philosophical traditions, including Vedanta, Buddhism, and Yoga.
1. Body as a Temporary Instrument
Explanation: The body is viewed as a temporary vessel that houses the true self. The "I" represents the
core essence, which is eternal, while the body is impermanent and subject to decay.
Example: In Hinduism, the soul (Atman) is often compared to a driver and the body to a chariot. The soul
controls the body but is distinct from it.
2. Body as a Tool for Action (Karma)
Explanation: The body is an instrument through which the "I" performs actions (karma). Every action
performed by the body, whether physical, mental, or emotional, leaves an imprint on the self, shaping
one's future experiences.
Example: A musician uses an instrument to create music. Similarly, the self uses the body to interact with
the world and perform actions that generate karma.

13. 3. The Body and the Mind as Instruments of Self-Realization
Explanation: The body and mind are considered tools for achieving higher knowledge
and self-realization. Through discipline and control of the body, one can attain
spiritual awareness and understand the true nature of the self.
Example: In yoga, the body is disciplined through postures (asanas), and the mind
through meditation, to align with the higher self and achieve enlightenment.
4. Non-Attachment to the Body
Explanation: Human values texts often teach that attachment to the body leads to
suffering, as the body is impermanent. Recognizing the body as an instrument rather
than the essence of self encourages detachment from physical desires and material
attachments.
Example: The story of Prince Siddhartha (who became the Buddha) illustrates how he
renounced his royal life and the pleasures of the body in search of enlightenment,
recognizing that bodily pleasures are fleeting.
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14. 5. Ethical Living through the Body
Explanation: The body is an instrument for expressing moral and ethical values. It is
used to practice virtues such as non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness (satya), and
compassion, aligning physical actions with inner values.
Example: Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence (ahimsa) involved using the
body as an instrument to peacefully resist oppression, illustrating how bodily actions
can reflect deeper human values.
6. Holistic View of Body and Mind
Explanation: The body and mind work together as instruments of the "I" for the
holistic development of a person. A balance between physical health, mental clarity,
and spiritual wisdom leads to a complete understanding of the self.
Example: In the Indian holistic health system Ayurveda, the body is seen as an
essential part of achieving balance between the physical, mental, and spiritual
aspects of life.
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15. Understanding the characteristics and
Activities of ‘I’ and harmony in ‘I’
The "I" of the sense of autonomy and individuality possesses a number of
essential traits and behaviorsthat support the whole balance. Among these
qualitiesare a few of them:-
1.Awareness of oneself: Self-awareness, or the consciousness of one's own ideas,
feelings, and experiences, is what defines the "I." Being self-aware enables
people to comprehend their own reasons, values, and beliefs and to make wise
judgments regarding their lives.
2.Making decisions: The ability to make judgments is another quality that defines
the "I." This capacity enables people to take charge of their life and make
decisions that are consistent with their objectives, principles, and desires.

16. Understanding the characteristics and
Activities of ‘I’ and harmony in ‘I’
3. Emotions: Anger and sadness are examples of negative emotions, whereas
happiness and joy are examples of positive emotions that the "I" experiences.
Our emotions are essential to our lives because they enable us to make sense of
the things that happen to us and react to the environment in which we live.
4. Creativity: Imagination and the capacity to produce new things are what
define the "I." People that are creative can express who they are and see the
world in fresh and different ways.
5. Relationships: Developing relationships with other people is another way that
the "I" is defined. Relationships are essential to our lives because they give us a
sense of belonging, support, and community.

17. People need to participate in activities that support balance and
well-being in order for the "I" to operate harmoniously. Among
those, few of these activities are:-
Mindfulness: Mindfulness exercises, like yoga and meditation,
can support people in developing a sense of self-awareness and
in building connections with their feelings and thoughts.
Creative endeavors: Taking up artistic endeavors like painting,
writing, or music can enable people to express themselves and
see the world in fresh and original ways.
physical activity: Physical activity has the potential to lower stress
levels and improve both physical and mental health.
Relationships: Developing and preserving positive relationships
with people can provide people a sense of belonging, support,
and community.

18. Theinternalconditionofalignmentandbalancethatexists
withinaperson'sconsciousnessisreferredtoasharmonyin
the"I".Itsymbolizesaconditionofinnerserenityand
coherencewhenone'sdesires,ideas,emotions,andbehaviors
areallinharmony.Achievingharmonyinthe"I"isessentialto
one'smoralbehaviorandoverallwell-beingbecauseitallows
onetoacthonorablyandkeepmotivationswithinandoutside
ofoneselfconsistent.Harmonyinthe"I"isdefinedby
philosophicaltraditionslikeIndianphilosophy'sVedantaasthe
realizationofone'sactualessence,whichisinaccordancewith
universalconceptsliketruthandrighteousness(dharma).
HARMONY IN “I”

19. PHILOSOPHICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL
PERSPECTIVES ON HARMONY IN THE "I "
•Aristotle’s Concept of Eudaimonia: Aristotle’s idea of eudaimonia(flourishing
or well-being) highlights the importance of harmony in the self. For him, a
well-lived life is one where desires, virtues, and actions are in harmony,
leading to fulfillment.
•Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs: Psychologically, Abraham Maslow proposed
that once basic needs are fulfilled, individuals move toward self-
actualization. This state, akin to harmony in the "I", involves the alignment
of personal growth, purpose, and values.
•Buddhist Teachings on Mindfulness: In Buddhism, mindfulness and
meditation are practices aimed at achieving harmony in the self. By
cultivating awareness of thoughts and emotions, individuals can reduce
internal conflict and foster inner peace.

20. INTERNAL COMPONENTS OF "I" HARMONY
Alignment of Intentions and Desires: Two essential components of the "I" are intentions and
desires. When these aspirations are in line with the principles of wellbeing, empathy, and
veracity rather than selfish or materialistic goals, harmony prevails.
Transparency in Cognitive Processes: Harmony inside the "I" requires clear, purposeful thinking
that is in line with higher ideals. This clarity lessens internal conflict and uncertainty and
facilitates wise decision-making.
Emotional Stability: An essential element of harmony is emotional stability. Emotions like wrath,
fear, or greed are controlled so as not to disturb inner peace when the "I" is in harmony, enabling
the person to feel equanimity.
Consistency between Thought, Speech, and Action: The state of harmony in the "I" can be
determined by seeing a person's thoughts, words, and actions being consistent with one another.
The person is encouraged to be genuine and trustworthy by this internal congruence.

21. Self-Awareness: Developing self-awareness is the first step toward harmony.
Through introspection and mindfulness, individuals can observe their thoughts,
desires, and actions, identifying areas where alignment is lacking.
Value Alignment: To achieve harmony, it is essential that a person’s values guide
their desires and actions. Aligning personal ambitions with universal human values
such as truth, compassion, and justice creates internal coherence.
Emotional Regulation: Techniques such as mindfulness meditation and cognitive
behavioral therapy (CBT) can help individuals regulate emotions, ensuring that
emotional responses do not disrupt inner harmony.
Consistent Behavior: Practicing consistency in thought, speech, and action is key to
maintaining harmony. When a person acts in alignment with their values and
beliefs, internal conflict is minimized.
STEPS TO ACHIEVE HARMONY IN THE " I”

22. Self-
Awareness
Value
Alignment
Emotional
Regulation
Consistent
Behavior

23. The"I"referstotheconsciousself,oftenassociated
withawareness,desires,thoughts,andemotions.On
theotherhand,thebodyisthephysicalaspectthat
requirescareandmaintenancetofunctionproperly.
Whilethebodyissubjecttobiologicalneedssuchas
food,water,andrest,the"I"istheonethat
perceives,thinks,anddecidestointeractwiththe
worldandthebodyitself.Achievingharmony
betweenthe"I"andthebodyiscrucialforwell-being,
andthisharmonycanbeunderstoodthroughtwokey
concepts:Sanyam(self-regulation)andSwasthya
(health).
“SanyamSwasthya”

24. Sanyamrefers to the conscious control or regulation exercised by the "I" over
the body and its actions.
It involves understanding the needs of the body and managing them
appropriately without letting cravings or desires take over.
Sanyamis rooted in awareness, where the "I" is able to discern between
necessary actions and indulgences. This self-regulation is not merely about
restricting the body but understanding its natural requirements and responding
to them in a balanced manner.
For instance, Sanyaminvolves maintaining a disciplined lifestyle by regulating
food intake, physical activity, and rest in a way that supports the health of the
body. It is about preventing both excess and deficiency in fulfilling bodily needs.
The concept emphasizes that while the body has natural urges, the "I" should
guide and manage these urges to ensure well-being .
Sanyam

25. Swasthyais a Sanskrit term meaning "health" or "being established in oneself."
It is not merely the absence of disease but a state of complete physical, mental,
and social well-being.
The word "Swasthya" can be broken down as "Swa", meaning "self," and
"Stha", meaning "to be established." Thus, Swasthyaimplies being in a state of
harmony and balance within oneself, which includes both the physical and
conscious dimensions.
Swasthyais achieved when there is a proper alignment between the "I" and the
body. It involves caring for the body’s needs, maintaining hygiene, eating
nutritious food, getting sufficient rest, and engaging in activities that promote
physical strength and mental clarity. However, it also requires mental stability,
emotional balance, and spiritual peace, highlighting that health is not purely
physical but an integrated state of being .
Swasthya

26. To maintain harmony between the "I" and the body, one must practice Sanyam(self-
regulation) while striving for Swasthya(health). These two principles are interdependent;
self-regulation ensures that the body is not subjected to over-indulgence or neglect, while
health allows the body to function optimally, supporting the "I" in its conscious activities.
For example, eating too much or too little food disrupts the balance between "I" and the
body. Through Sanyam, the "I" can regulate eating habits based on the actual needs of the
body, rather than desires driven by external factors like taste or emotion. This ensures
Swasthya, where the body is nourished adequately and functions without stress or strain .
Similarly, sleep and rest are essential for the body, and the "I" must regulate sleep patterns
by ensuring enough rest for the body to rejuvenate, rather than depriving or oversleeping,
which can lead to physical or mental issues. By practicing Sanyam, one maintains the
health of the body and ensures that the mind remains alert and focused .
"I" AND THE BODY IN HARMONY VIA SANYAM AND
SWASTHYA

27. THANK
YOU!