The Five Separations of Body Image
A Buddhist framework for discussing how we see our physical selves
The Middle Way was taught by Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha. Born into a rich family in the ancient city of Kapilavastu, Gautama lived a comfortable, privileged life within the grounds of his family’s palace. Gautama first set foot beyond the confines of wealth and luxury at the age of 29. He was horrified by what he saw — death, disease, misery, suffering. Humbled by this new reality, he was struck by the thread of suffering running through humanity. From that moment, Gautama began his quest to find a way beyond suffering, to Nirvâna.
In a moment known as “The Great Renunciation,” Gautama calmly abandoned his life of leisure, giving up his status, wealth, and possessions. His initial attempt at awakening was through asceticism, an extreme form of self-discipline. Six years of little food, little sleep, little interaction, and hours and hours of meditation each day took their toll; Gautama collapsed in ill health. After this worrying wake-up call, he realized another important truth — an extreme, unbalanced approach would never lead to enlightenment.
Buddhism and Body Image
Despite being accused of cowardice by his pro-ascetic peers, Gautama knew a balanced approach was essential to…
