UNIVERSAL HUMAN VALUES-II

Module 2

Harmony in the Human Being (4 hours)

Understanding Human being as the Co-existence of the Self and the Body, Distinguishing between
the Needs of the Self and the Body, The Body as an Instrument of the Self, Understanding Harmony
in the Self, Harmony of the Self with the Body, Program to ensure self-regulation and Health

Harmony in the human being refers to a state of balance, well-being, and integration in all
aspects of our existence. It encompasses the alignment of our thoughts, emotions, actions,
relationships, and connection to the larger world. Achieving harmony involves understanding and
nurturing the different dimensions of our being—physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual—to
create a sense of inner peace and coherence.

Here are some key aspects that contribute to harmony in the human being:

1. Self-awareness: Developing self-awareness is crucial for understanding our thoughts, beliefs,

values, and behaviors. By cultivating mindfulness and introspection, we can become more
conscious of our inner world and how it influences our experiences and interactions with others.
2. Emotional well-being: Acknowledging, processing, and expressing our emotions in a healthy way
is vital for harmony. This includes recognizing and honoring our feelings, managing stress,
practicing self-compassion, and seeking support when needed.
3. Authenticity and self-acceptance: Embracing our true selves and accepting all aspects of our
being, including strengths, weaknesses, and imperfections, fosters inner harmony. It involves letting
go of self-judgment and embracing self-compassion and self-love.
4. Physical well-being: Caring for our bodies through regular exercise, proper nutrition, restful sleep,
and overall self-care is essential for harmony. When we prioritize our physical health, we provide a
strong foundation for our well-being and ability to engage fully in life.
5. Meaningful relationships: Nurturing healthy, supportive connections with others contributes to our
overall harmony. Engaging in empathetic communication, fostering trust, and cultivating

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meaningful relationships based on mutual respect and understanding can enhance our well-being
and sense of belonging.
6. Purpose and fulfillment: Identifying and pursuing our passions, interests, and meaningful goals
gives us a sense of purpose and fulfillment. When we align our actions with our values and
aspirations, we experience a deeper sense of harmony and satisfaction in life.
7. Connection to something greater: Recognizing our interconnectedness with the world around us,
whether through nature, spirituality, or a sense of purpose beyond ourselves, can bring a profound
sense of harmony. This connection to something greater can provide guidance, inspiration, and a
sense of belonging.

Harmony in the human being is a dynamic and ongoing process. It requires continuous self-
reflection, personal growth, and nurturing of our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-
being. By consciously attending to these aspects, we can cultivate a state of harmony that enriches
our lives and allows us to navigate the world with greater resilience, compassion, and joy.

2.1 Understanding Human being as the Co-existence of the Self and the Body

Understanding the human being as the co-existence of the self and the body involves
recognizing the intricate relationship between our subjective experience (self) and our physical form
(body). It acknowledges that humans are not solely defined by their physicality but also possess
consciousness, thoughts, emotions, and a sense of identity.

The self encompasses our individuality, personality, and subjective awareness. It refers to
our thoughts, beliefs, values, desires, and emotions—the inner world that shapes our perception and
understanding of ourselves and the external world. The self is the locus of our consciousness, our
awareness of our own existence, and our ability to reflect on our experiences and make choices.

On the other hand, the body represents the physical aspect of our being. It includes our
biological systems, organs, and the tangible form that enables us to interact with the world. The

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body serves as the vehicle through which we experience sensations, engage in physical activities,
and communicate with others.

Recognizing the co-existence of the self and the body means understanding that these two
aspects are deeply interconnected and mutually influencing. The body provides the vessel for the
self to navigate and interact with the world, while the self shapes our thoughts, emotions, and
actions within the physical realm.

Harmony between the self and the body arises when there is a balanced and integrated
relationship between the two. It involves aligning our thoughts, emotions, and values with the needs
and well-being of our physical form. When the self respects and takes care of the body, and the
body supports the expression and actualization of the self, a sense of harmony is achieved.

This understanding highlights the importance of holistic well-being, where the physical and
mental aspects of our being are nurtured together. It emphasizes the need to cultivate self-
awareness, self-care, and self-compassion. By recognizing the interplay between the self and the
body, we can strive for a harmonious integration of our thoughts, emotions, actions, and physical
health.

Practices such as mindfulness, meditation, self-reflection, and engaging in activities that

promote physical health and emotional well-being can contribute to the harmonious co-existence of
the self and the body. These practices foster self-awareness, deepen the mind-body connection, and
promote a sense of wholeness and balance in our lives.

Ultimately, understanding the human being as the co-existence of the self and the body
invites us to appreciate and honor the multidimensional nature of our existence. By nurturing both
aspects and striving for harmony between them, we can lead more fulfilling and authentic lives.

Understanding the human being as the co-existence of the self and the body involves recognizing
the intricate relationship and interdependence between our inner subjective experience (the self) and
our physical form (the body). It acknowledges that we are holistic beings with interconnected
dimensions that contribute to our overall existence.
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1. The Self: The self encompasses our consciousness, thoughts, emotions, beliefs, values, identity, and
personal experiences. It represents our inner subjective world and our unique sense of self-
awareness. It is the aspect of us that perceives, interprets, and reflects upon our experiences.
2. The Body: The body is the physical vessel that houses the self and enables us to interact with the
external world. It consists of biological systems, organs, senses, and physiological functions. The
body provides the means for us to experience the world, engage with others, and express ourselves
physically.

Key aspects to consider when understanding the co-existence of the self and the body:

1. Embodied Experience: Our experiences are not solely mental or physical but a combination of both.
Our thoughts, emotions, and sensations are often felt and experienced through our body. For
example, physical sensations can influence our emotional state, and emotions can manifest as bodily
sensations. The body is intimately involved in how we perceive and process our experiences.
2. Influence and Interaction: The self and the body continuously interact and influence each other. Our
physical health and well-being can impact our mental and emotional state, just as our thoughts and
emotions can affect our physical condition. This mutual influence highlights the importance of
addressing both aspects for overall well-being.
3. Perception and Identity: Our perception of ourselves and our identity is influenced by both our inner
self-awareness and our physical appearance. How we view ourselves can be shaped by our bodily
experiences, body image, and the social and cultural constructs associated with the body. Our self-
concept is not solely based on our internal thoughts but also on how we relate to our physical form.
4. Integration and Harmony: Achieving harmony between the self and the body involves recognizing
and honoring the needs of both aspects. It requires attending to physical well-being, such as
maintaining a healthy lifestyle, while also nurturing our psychological and emotional well-being
through self-reflection, self-care, and personal growth.
5. Wholeness and Authenticity: Recognizing the co-existence of the self and the body allows us to
embrace our wholeness and authenticity as human beings. It encourages us to honor and integrate
our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions, rather than viewing them as separate
entities. Embracing our complete being supports a more holistic and balanced approach to self-
understanding and personal development.

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Understanding the human being as the co-existence of the self and the body invites us to explore the
dynamic relationship between our inner world and our physical form. By acknowledging the
interplay between these aspects, we can cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness, well-being, and
integration in our lives.

2.2 Distinguishing between the Needs of the Self and the Body

Distinguishing between the needs of the self and the body involves recognizing the different
requirements and aspects of our being that contribute to overall well-being. While the self
encompasses our subjective experience, thoughts, and emotions, the body represents our physical
form and its biological needs. Here are some key distinctions to consider:

1. Physical needs of the body: The body has specific physiological requirements to function
optimally. These include basic needs such as nourishment through a balanced diet, hydration, restful
sleep, exercise, and proper hygiene. Physical needs also involve ensuring safety and maintaining a
healthy environment to protect the body from harm.
2. Emotional and psychological needs of the self: The self has emotional and psychological needs
that contribute to its well-being. These include the need for connection, love, belonging, self-
expression, autonomy, personal growth, and fulfillment. Emotional needs involve feeling
understood, validated, and supported in relationships, as well as engaging in activities that bring
joy, satisfaction, and a sense of purpose.
3. Intellectual and cognitive needs of the self: The self has a need for intellectual stimulation,
learning, and cognitive development. This involves engaging in activities that challenge the mind,
seeking knowledge, pursuing interests, and exploring new ideas. Intellectual needs contribute to
personal growth, creativity, and a sense of mental fulfillment.
4. Social needs of the self: Humans are social beings, and the self has a need for social connection
and belonging. This includes forming relationships, experiencing companionship, sharing
experiences, and participating in social interactions. Social needs involve feeling accepted,

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understood, and valued by others, as well as contributing to the well-being of others through
empathy and support.

It is important to recognize that the needs of the self and the body are interconnected and
influence each other. Neglecting one aspect can impact the other. For example, chronic stress or
emotional distress can manifest as physical symptoms, while neglecting physical needs can affect
mental well-being.

Achieving balance and harmony between the needs of the self and the body involves
recognizing and addressing both aspects. It requires self-awareness to identify and understand one's
physical and emotional needs, as well as self-care practices that cater to both. Engaging in activities
that support physical health, emotional well-being, personal growth, and social connections can
contribute to a more holistic and balanced approach to overall well-being.

Ultimately, recognizing and distinguishing between the needs of the self and the body helps
us make informed choices and prioritize actions that support both aspects of our being, leading to a
more integrated and fulfilling life.

2.3 The Body as an Instrument of the Self

Viewing the body as an instrument of the self involves perceiving the physical form as a tool
through which the self expresses, interacts, and engages with the world. It recognizes that the body
is not merely a separate entity but an integral part of our being, facilitating our experiences and
actions in the external realm.

Here are some key aspects to consider when understanding the body as an instrument of the self:

1. Expression: The body serves as a medium through which the self can express thoughts, emotions,
and creativity. Facial expressions, gestures, body language, and vocalizations are ways in which the
self communicates and conveys its inner experiences to others.

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2. Action and Movement: The body allows the self to engage in physical actions and movements,
enabling us to interact with our environment, pursue goals, and manifest our intentions. The body's
abilities and skills, such as dexterity, strength, coordination, and mobility, facilitate our ability to
navigate and actively participate in the world.
3. Sensation and Perception: Through the body, the self perceives and interprets sensory information
from the environment. Senses like sight, hearing, taste, touch, and smell provide us with a means to
experience and understand the world around us. The body's sensory capabilities enable the self to
engage with the richness of sensory stimuli and derive meaning from them.
4. Experience and Embodiment: The body plays a significant role in shaping our experiences and
creating a sense of embodiment. It anchors us in the present moment and grounds our subjective
awareness. By being attuned to bodily sensations, we can deepen our connection with ourselves,
others, and the surrounding world.
5. Health and Well-being: Nurturing the body's physical health and well-being is vital for supporting
the self's optimal functioning and expression. Taking care of the body through practices such as
proper nutrition, exercise, rest, and self-care allows the self to operate more effectively and
sustainably in pursuing its desires and goals.

Recognizing the body as an instrument of the self encourages us to cultivate a harmonious

relationship between the physical and mental aspects of our being. It emphasizes the importance of
honoring and caring for the body, as its condition and capabilities significantly influence our ability
to express, engage, and fulfill our potential as individuals.

By appreciating the body as an instrument, we can develop a greater sense of embodiment,

self-acceptance, and agency. We can make conscious choices that align with our values, harness our
physical abilities, and use our bodies as vehicles for self-expression, personal growth, and
meaningful engagement with the world around us.

2.4 Understanding Harmony in the Self

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Understanding harmony in the self involves recognizing and cultivating a sense of balance,
coherence, and integration within our inner world. It encompasses various aspects of our being,
including thoughts, emotions, values, beliefs, desires, and experiences. When we achieve harmony
within ourselves, we experience a sense of wholeness, authenticity, and well-being.

Here are some key elements to consider when understanding harmony in the self:

1. Self-awareness: Developing self-awareness is fundamental to understanding and achieving

harmony within the self. It involves cultivating a deep understanding of our thoughts, emotions,
patterns of behavior, strengths, weaknesses, and triggers. By becoming more self-aware, we can
recognize and acknowledge different aspects of ourselves, fostering a greater sense of inner
harmony.
2. Emotional intelligence: Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage
our own emotions effectively. It involves developing self-awareness of our emotions, empathizing
with others, and regulating our emotional responses. By cultivating emotional intelligence, we can
foster emotional well-being, navigate challenges more effectively, and maintain harmony within
ourselves.
3. Alignment with values: Living in alignment with our core values is essential for inner harmony.
When our thoughts, actions, and choices align with our deeply held values and beliefs, we
experience a sense of integrity and coherence within ourselves. Identifying our values and making
choices that honor them allows us to live in harmony with our authentic selves.
4. Self-acceptance and self-compassion: Accepting and embracing ourselves as we are, with all our
strengths and imperfections, is crucial for inner harmony. Self-acceptance involves acknowledging
our worth, letting go of self-judgment, and practicing self-compassion. By treating ourselves with
kindness and understanding, we create a nurturing environment within ourselves that fosters
harmony.
5. Mindfulness and presence: Cultivating mindfulness and being fully present in the present moment
can help us achieve inner harmony. By focusing our attention on the present, we can observe our
thoughts, emotions, and sensations without judgment. Mindfulness allows us to develop a deeper
understanding of ourselves, reduce stress, and find a sense of peace and harmony within the present
experience.

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6. Integration and balance: Achieving harmony within the self involves integrating different aspects
of our being and finding balance between them. It requires recognizing and honoring our physical,
mental, emotional, and spiritual needs. By attending to these dimensions and finding equilibrium
between them, we create a state of harmony and well-being within ourselves.
7. Personal growth and fulfillment: Engaging in activities that promote personal growth, learning,
and fulfillment contributes to inner harmony. When we pursue our passions, set and achieve
meaningful goals, and engage in activities that align with our purpose, we experience a sense of
fulfillment and harmony within ourselves.

Understanding harmony in the self is an ongoing journey that requires self-reflection, self-
care, and a commitment to personal growth. By cultivating self-awareness, emotional intelligence,
alignment with values, self-acceptance, mindfulness, integration, and personal growth, we can
create a foundation of inner harmony that positively impacts our overall well-being and quality of
life.

2.5 Harmony of the Self with the Body

The harmony of the self with the body refers to the integration and alignment between our
inner self and our physical form. It involves recognizing that our thoughts, emotions, values, and
experiences are interconnected with the well-being and needs of our body. When there is harmony
between the self and the body, we experience a sense of unity, balance, and well-being.

Here are some aspects to consider when understanding the harmony of the self with the body:

1. Embodied awareness: Developing a deep connection and awareness of our body is essential for
achieving harmony. This involves being attuned to bodily sensations, understanding our physical
needs, and recognizing how our emotions and thoughts are reflected in our physical experiences. By
practicing embodied awareness, we can better respond to the needs of our body and nurture its well-
being.

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2. Mind-body connection: Recognizing the intricate relationship between the mind and the body is
key to achieving harmony. Our thoughts and emotions can impact our physical well-being, and
conversely, the state of our body can influence our mental and emotional state. Cultivating practices
such as mindfulness, meditation, and movement can help strengthen the mind-body connection and
foster harmony between the two.
3. Self-care and physical well-being: Taking care of our body is essential for overall harmony. This
involves meeting the physical needs of the body through practices such as proper nutrition, regular
exercise, restful sleep, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Prioritizing self-care activities that
support our physical well-being can contribute to a greater sense of harmony between the self and
the body.
4. Body acceptance and self-compassion: Accepting and embracing our bodies as they are, without
judgment or comparison, is crucial for harmony. This involves practicing self-compassion and
developing a positive body image. By nurturing a kind and loving relationship with our body, we
can cultivate a deeper sense of acceptance and alignment with our physical form.
5. Honoring physical and emotional boundaries: Respecting our physical and emotional boundaries
is important for maintaining harmony. This involves setting healthy limits, listening to the signals of
our body, and recognizing our emotional needs. By honoring our boundaries, we can prevent
physical and emotional exhaustion, and create a supportive environment for both the self and the
body.
6. Integration of body and self-expression: Allowing our body to be a vessel for self-expression
contributes to harmony. Engaging in activities such as dance, art, music, or any form of creative
expression can help bridge the gap between the self and the body. By using our body as a medium
for self-expression, we can foster a deeper sense of integration and harmony within ourselves.
7. Gratitude and appreciation: Cultivating gratitude and appreciation for our body is a powerful way
to foster harmony. Recognizing the incredible capabilities and functions of our body, expressing
gratitude for its strength, resilience, and the experiences it allows us to have can deepen our
connection and foster a sense of harmony with our physical form.

Achieving harmony between the self and the body is an ongoing process that requires self-
awareness, self-care, and a holistic approach to well-being. By nurturing the mind-body connection,

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practicing self-compassion, honoring boundaries, and integrating self-expression, we can foster a

greater sense of unity, balance, and well-being within ourselves.

2.6: Program to ensure self-regulation and Health

Developing a program to ensure self-regulation and health involves implementing various
strategies and practices to support overall well-being and maintain a balanced lifestyle. Here are
some components to consider when creating such a program:

1. Mindfulness and meditation: Incorporate mindfulness and meditation practices into your daily
routine. These techniques can help increase self-awareness, reduce stress, improve focus, and
promote emotional well-being. Allocate dedicated time for mindfulness or meditation exercises
each day.
2. Regular exercise: Include regular physical activity in your program. Engaging in exercise not only
improves physical health but also releases endorphins, reduces stress, and enhances mood. Choose
activities that you enjoy and set achievable goals to maintain consistency.
3. Healthy nutrition: Adopt a balanced and nutritious diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables,
whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit processed foods, sugary snacks, and excessive
caffeine or alcohol consumption. Consult a healthcare professional or nutritionist for personalized
guidance.
4. Sleep hygiene: Establish a consistent sleep schedule and prioritize sufficient sleep. Create a
relaxing bedtime routine, maintain a comfortable sleep environment, and limit electronic device
usage before bed. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
5. Stress management: Develop effective stress management techniques. This may include practices
such as deep breathing exercises, journaling, engaging in hobbies, spending time in nature, seeking
support from loved ones, or practicing relaxation techniques like yoga or Tai Chi.
6. Emotional well-being: Pay attention to your emotional needs and engage in activities that support
emotional well-being. This may involve maintaining healthy relationships, seeking therapy or
counseling when needed, engaging in self-reflection and self-care practices, and practicing self-
compassion.

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7. Time management: Implement strategies to manage your time effectively. Prioritize tasks, set
realistic goals, and establish healthy boundaries to avoid burnout. Break larger tasks into smaller,
manageable steps, and schedule regular breaks to rest and recharge.
8. Social connection: Foster meaningful connections and maintain a supportive social network.
Engage in activities that allow you to connect with others, such as joining clubs, volunteering, or
participating in community events. Strong social connections contribute to overall well-being and
provide a sense of belonging.
9. Regular check-ups: Schedule routine medical check-ups and screenings to monitor your physical
health and identify any potential issues early on. Stay proactive in managing your health and follow
healthcare professionals' recommendations.
10. Self-reflection and growth: Engage in self-reflection exercises, such as journaling or meditation, to
assess your progress, identify areas for improvement, and set personal goals. Continuously seek
opportunities for personal growth, learning, and self-development.

Remember, each person's needs and circumstances are unique, so tailor the program to suit
your specific requirements. Consistency, commitment, and gradual implementation of these
practices can help promote self-regulation and maintain overall health and well-being. Consider
consulting with healthcare professionals or wellness experts for personalized guidance and support.

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