Photos from open sources
It is believed that Buddha Shakyamuni was a very well-fed man. That is why the legendary founder of Buddhism is portrayed on statues and paintings so full-bodied. Obviously father popular religious and philosophical teachings were more interested in him internal health, and he paid attention to his mortal shell not as much as current proponents of good nutrition.
However, far from all modern Buddhists are allowed to gain weight as their main teacher. For example, the life of monks in Thailand is marked by long meditations, unhurried rhythms and fulfilling obedience that contributes not only to the spiritual improvement, but also gaining extra pounds. Such the negative side of a simple and devoid of all life events makes Buddhist priors pay close attention to the weight of their novices.
Recent studies have shown that more than half of the inhabitants Thai monasteries are overweight and others ailments caused by a sedentary lifestyle: increased cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure. Doctors suggest that such health problems may not be caused by not only lack of exercise, but also improper nutrition.
Buddhists are taught proper nutrition.
In the territories of many temples, Buddhists themselves grow greens, vegetables and fruits, refusing meat, fish and eggs, but at the same time their the main diet is still alms given by fellow countrymen. The monks are brought rice, wheat, potatoes, butter, sweets, honey and even local street fast food. High in calories, rich in starch and sugars, food certainly leads to weight problems that considered by doctors as a time bomb – where obesity begins, soon other problems appear.
The current task of Thai officials from religion is the return of the monks to a slender look. And the point here is not only in the physical health of novices, but also in the image itself Buddhism. The inhabitants of the cloisters, as you know, are ascetic life, and the image of a fat man does not fit with her in any way. therefore the government consulted with doctors and invited residents monasteries proper balanced nutrition, as well as daily physical exercise.
In several temples, the abbots went further and supplied the monks special tight belts that compress the waist, resembling clergy that overeating is harmful.
Life Health
