Human beings are creatures of desire, and desires can play both positive and negative roles.
Here, I’ll classify desires into positive and negative according to their necessity.
Take appetite as an example.
Appetite itself is simply a form of desire.
When it operates positively, it encourages us to eat, supporting our survival.
But when it operates negatively, it can lead to overeating, harming our health and causing various diseases.
In this way, one desire can produce two opposing outcomes.
To approach desires in a balanced way, we need a neutral mindset, which meditation can help us develop.
For example, after intense exercise or physical exertion, it’s natural to eat more to replenish energy.
Conversely, after overeating, it’s only reasonable to eat less at the next meal.
Managing appetite isn’t about overeating or under-eating but finding an optimal balance in nutrients and portion size based on current conditions.
By observing the body’s responses and changes in appetite through mindful and slow eating, we cultivate a meditative approach.
With time, appetite can become a consistently positive force, promoting well-being and balance.
(Continued in Part 2)