A practice of self-discipline or ascetic training, especially in ancient Greek philosophy and early Christian spirituality; deliberate self-denial for spiritual growth.
From Greek askesis (ἄσκησις), from askein (to work, exercise, train). The word originally referred to athletic training before being adopted by philosophers and religious figures to describe spiritual training.
The word connects athletic and spiritual training in ancient thinking—both Greek athletes and Christian monks used the same word for their rigorous practices, showing that the mind-body connection through discipline is ancient!
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.