[JayEll]

Hey slimmingsi,

Shinto isn't Buddhism--it's a different religion. But anyway, the precepts aren't like commandments. They are rules for proper living--no one is going to get "struck down" for disobedience.

So, some Buddhists decide to ignore the precept about not using intoxicating substances. It's not a good idea, of course, since the practices are all about refining one's consciousness, and alcohol and drugs do just the opposite. But there are feasts in Tibetan Buddhism where a small amount of alcohol can be taken as part of a ritual offering.

For weight loss, alcohol can be a problem because it's all calories and almost no nutrients--empty calories for sure.

Jay

[JayEll]

Namaste! I'm bumping this thread up just to remind folks it's here.

Please feel free to post questions, comments, and stories of progress. You do not have to be a "card carrying Buddhist" to post (there is no such thing anyway).

Jay

[Amarie2pt0]

Originally Posted by JayEll

You do not have to be a "card carrying Buddhist" to post (there is no such thing anyway).

Jay

((Stops fishing around in her purse for a card that says "Buddhist")) Oh good.

Hi! I'm glad I found this post, and want to thank those who've contributed. I've been studying for about a year now, but would not go so far as to say I've established a reliable practice.

I'd like to share an experience I have had that relates to your topic of attachment:

About six years ago I lost a lot of weight, got very healthy and fit, and was able to buy beautiful clothing that I loved. I had a couple of bad years where I put my weight back on and more, and none of my beautiful clothing fit anymore. Thinking I would lose the weight again, I kept the clothes - sometimes in my closet, sometimes packed in boxes. I've moved twice in that time, always taking those clothes with me.

Earlier this year, I realized that I feel weighed down by the amount of stuff I have, including those clothes. About a month ago, I carefully unpacked and sorted all of them, and thought about people in my life who were those sizes now. I gave them all away to people who wanted and needed them, and those beautiful clothes brought my friends joy, and that in turn brought me joy.

Since then I have lost more than 15 pounds. Bear in mind that I've been trying to lose weight on and off without success for the last six years. This time, though, I am trying to stay present, and do the work I needed to do today to make myself healthy. By letting go of those clothes I have gained immeasurable peace and may well have cleared the way to becoming physically healthier again.

Beautiful things can be enjoyed and appreciated, but there may be a time when it is right to let them go.

Thanks for posting.

[JayEll]

Namaste!

I have moved my response to your post over to Buddhist #4! Please meet up with us over there. Thanks!

Jay