On YouTube
Stressed out? Avoid 'living in the moment' || Acharya Prashant, in conversation (2022)
Acharya Prashant
11.8K views
2 years ago
Desireless action
Human consciousness
Existential vacuum
Spiritual liberation
Right desire
Kabir Saheb
Duty
Truth
Description

Acharya Prashant explains that the popular concept of living in the moment is often misunderstood and misapplied. He asserts that this state is exclusively the privilege of those who practice desireless action. For most people, whose actions are driven by personal desires, focusing only on the present is a way to ignore the inevitable consequences of their choices. He compares this to enjoying a meal without considering the bill that must eventually be paid. True presence in the moment is not a goal to be pursued directly but is a natural byproduct of dedicating oneself to a sacred or indispensable duty. When one is fully committed to a higher purpose or the truth, the concern for future results naturally fades away. Regarding stress, Acharya Prashant describes it as an inherent part of the human condition arising from a deep-seated sense of incompleteness. Unlike animals, which are satisfied once their physical needs are met, humans possess an existential vacuum that leads to constant restlessness. He suggests that instead of trying to eliminate stress entirely, one should channel it toward the right ends. Just as the right desire leads to desirelessness, the right kind of stress or suffering—undertaken for a noble and significant cause—leads toward ultimate liberation and joy. He references Kabir Saheb to emphasize that one should worry about the eternal truth rather than trivial, worldly matters. By raising one's consciousness and finding a worthy purpose, the inherent strife of life becomes meaningful and leads toward spiritual fulfillment.