Plural of askesis; plural of Greek askesis meaning practices of self-discipline or ascetic training.
From Greek askesis (ἄσκησις), meaning training or practice, related to askein (to work/exercise). The word entered English through religious and philosophical texts discussing ascetic practices.
Ancient Greek athletes used the same word 'askesis' for their athletic training that religious ascetics used for their spiritual practices—showing that 'exercise' and 'discipline' have been connected in human thinking for over 2,000 years!
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