Acharya Prashant explains that the human mind often seeks pleasure in various forms, including self-harm or being 'beaten up,' which he relates to masochism. He asserts that pleasure is subjective and conditioned; what is waste to one may be a source of pleasure to another. He emphasizes that all pleasure-seeking behavior, whether through food, praise, or entertainment, stems from the same fundamental search. He argues that pleasure thrives in darkness and lack of awareness, noting that consciousness must be diminished—often through intoxication, loud music, or dim lighting—for pleasure to be maximized. Therefore, pleasure is impossible in a truly meditative or aware state because awareness dissolves the illusion of pleasure. Addressing the concept of Tantra, Acharya Prashant clarifies that it does not aim to increase pleasure but rather to bring awareness to pleasure-seeking tendencies. He explains that Tantra originated for those with deep-seated habits and 'menial' conditionings, teaching them to watch themselves in moments of indulgence. He points out that being 'holier than thou' or abstaining from habits out of fear can be just as much of a conditioned habit as the indulgence itself. He mentions that some people avoid substances like alcohol because they fear the release of suppressed anger and desires. True awareness involves looking at these bottled-up urges without condemnation or justification, which ultimately leads to the cessation of the pleasure-seeking cycle.