The Middle Way

After several years on the brink of starvation, Gautama realized that it does not lead to salvation. One day, he accepted a simple meal consisting of rice & milk. He regained enough strength to continue his journey, and his 5 companions left him, disgusted that he strayed from asceticism.

This Buddhist doctrine says that in order to lead a healthy spiritual life, you need to have a healthy physical life. The Middle Way embraces the idea that contentment is a good thing. Spiritual happiness implies complete happiness in body, mind, & soul.