STRENGTHENING THE BALANCED LIFESTYLE OF THE ELDERLY WITH  THE PRINCIPLE OF ĀYUSASA DHAMMA

Phra Supachat Samleewong; Punnapong Wongnasri; Phra Metheevachirapirat  Thammarat Yodkhun; Phrakhru Pariyatthamrongkun  Kamthon Thongpradu; Phrakhru Bowonchaiwat  Wanchai Lueadthai; Phra Srivajarasarabundit  Bundit Charin; Phrakhrupalad Sarote  Saeou; Punyada Chongla-iad; Wilaiwan Isaradath; Jaruayporn  Hemrangsee

Authors

Phra Supachat Samleewong Faculty of Religion and Philosophy, Mahamakut Buddhist University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
Punnapong Wongnasri Faculty of Religion and Philosophy, Mahamakut Buddhist University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
Phra Metheevachirapirat Thammarat Yodkhun Faculty of Religion and Philosophy, Mahamakut Buddhist University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
Phrakhru Pariyatthamrongkun Kamthon Thongpradu Faculty of Religion and Philosophy, Mahamakut Buddhist University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
Phrakhru Bowonchaiwat Wanchai Lueadthai Faculty of Religion and Philosophy, Mahamakut Buddhist University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
Phra Srivajarasarabundit Bundit Charin Faculty of Education, Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Thailand
Phrakhrupalad Sarote Saeou Faculty of Buddhist Studies, Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University Nakhon Si Thammarat Campus, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
Punyada Chongla-iad Faculty of Social Sciences, Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, Nakhon Si Thammarat Campus, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
Wilaiwan Isaradath Office of the President, Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Thailand
Jaruayporn Hemrangsee Faculty of Social Sciences, Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, Nakhon Si Thammarat Campus, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand

Keywords:

Strengthening, Lifestyle, Balance, Elderly, Āyusasa Dhamma

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Strengthening a balanced lifestyle for the elderly through the application of the Āyusasa Dhamma (Principles of Longevity) is essential to enhancing their quality of life and overall well-being. This research article aimed to study the concept of a balanced life for the elderly, examine the principles of Āyusasa Dhamma in promoting such balance, and explore how to enhance a balanced lifestyle among elderly individuals through these principles.

Methodology: This study employed a qualitative research approach, which consisted of document analysis and in-depth interviews with 16 participants, including Buddhist scholars, community leaders, public health officers, and elderly representatives from the Khlong Noi Subdistrict community. The participants were selected through purposive sampling. The research instrument was a structured in-depth interview guide, and the data were analyzed using qualitative methods by creating categories and themes.

Main Results: The study revealed the following: 1) A balanced life is a crucial approach in enhancing quality of life, focusing on helping individuals live in harmony across physical, mental, social, and spiritual dimensions. This process involved adapting and developing living strategies in response to life's changes and challenges, especially during old age; 2) The Āyusasa Dhamma principles for enhancing a balanced lifestyle consists of five elements: Sappāyakārī (Engaging in Actions Conducive to Good Health), Sappāye Mattaññū (Knowing Moderation in What is Beneficial), Parinata Bhojī (Consuming Easily Digestible Food), Kālacārī (Acting Appropriately According to Time), and Brahmacārī (Observing Celibacy or Leading a Virtuous Life). These principles played an essential role in guiding the elderly toward balance in all aspects of life-physical, mental, and social, and 3) Strengthening a balanced lifestyle for the elderly through the Āyusasa Dhamma covered the following areas: Physical health: This included encouraging exercise, healthy eating, and behavior modification. Mental well-being: Buddhist teachings were used to foster peace of mind, letting go, and living mindfully. Social dimension: This emphasized maintaining positive interactions, engaging in suitable activities, and preserving meaningful relationships. These three areas complemented one another in contributing to a good quality of life in old age.

Involvement to Buddhadhamma: Strengthening a balanced lifestyle for the elderly through the principles of Āyusasa Dhamma was a process of developing wisdom and morality based on Buddhist teachings. It consisted of Sappāyakārī (Engaging in Actions Conducive to Health), Sappāye Mattaññū (Knowing Moderation in What is Beneficial), Parinata Bhojī (Consuming Easily Digestible Food), Kālacārī (Acting Appropriately According to Time), and Brahmacārī (Practicing Celibacy). These principles, derived from Tipiṭaka Volume 22, served as a key guideline for improving the quality of life of the elderly by using Buddhist teachings to integrate physical, mental, and social aspects. The Āyusasa Dhamma not only provided a sustainable way of living but also encouraged the elderly to live with dignity, happiness, and balance each day.

Conclusions: Promoting a balanced lifestyle for the elderly based on the five principles
of Āyusasa Dhamma is a key strategy in supporting physical, mental, and social well-being.
This focuses on proper nutrition, regular exercise, adequate rest, mindfulness and meditation for mental peace, and the ability to adapt to new social roles with understanding and happiness during retirement.

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