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Pleasure

People often feel guilty about a variety of things that they have either done or not done. Whenever guilt is present in a person’s life, they will find some way of punishing themselves – usually without realizing that they are doing so. That punishment might be psychological – such as repeatedly telling themselves that they are no good, or it might be physical – such as denying themselves certain pleasures.

Food is often used as a means to punish oneself, even though it might take the guise of being a reward. When food becomes an addiction or even a reward it is not being used appropriately as pleasurable nourishment, and therefore the satisfaction derived from it is extremely temporary. Then because it does not do what we want it to do, we tend to increase the quantity as a substitute for the quality we are lacking.

The experience of pleasure is essential to the aesthetic sense which enables us to experience the beauty and harmony of life, which then opens the heart to love and appreciation.

It is often a very helpful process to support someone in discovering guiltless pleasures, or to teach yourself to do the same. If life is not enjoyed it becomes a pain. And if people do not feel good about experiencing pleasure they will not find much to love within themselves or in their life.

Do you have any religious or cultural conditioning against the experience of pleasure? In many circles the experience of pleasure has long been considered sinful. Soul centered spirituality requires us to view and experience the world in which we live as wonderful, beautiful and pleasurable.

Exercises: 1. What do you enjoy but seldom if ever experience? 2. With makes you feel good? 3. Name 5 things that you could do or experience on a daily basis that would bring more satisfaction and pleasure into your life. 4. What experiences would you enjoy that would touch your heart in a positive way?

This is one of 150 Soul Perspective articles. For more articles visit Soul Perspectives Index.

Andrew and Bonnie Schneider are now offering personal interactive email coaching for the 4 Level Soul Journey program. Connect weekly with Andrew and Bonnie on how to develop soul consciousness. Read more about this personal coaching from Andrew and Bonnie Schneider by clicking here.