Rigorous spiritual discipline from "summary" of Biography of Swami Vivekananda by Nandini Saraf

For very few individuals, deep and consistent spiritual practice can be difficult, especially when it requires abstaining from worldly desires. Despite this challenge, Swami Vivekananda persevered in his pursuit of a greater truth.

Engaging in rigorous spiritual discipline requires hard-work and dedication, both of which Swami Vivekananda successfully devoted himself to. Through his training he was able to develop the skills necessary to achieve a higher level of enlightenment.

To master your spiritual development, you need more than just mere intellectual knowledge; you must be willing put in immense suffering and devotion to attain the desired state of enlightenment. Swami Vivekananda undertook this challenge with tenacity.

By subjecting his body and mind to relentless mortifications, Swami Vivekananda forged a path through which others could also find inspiration to lead a spiritually enriching life.

While many tend to look for mental or physical gratification in life, pursuing spiritual perfection requires one to break free from these attachments and accept self-denial. In doing so, Swami Vivekanand perceived attainment of inner wisdom.

For those looking to deepen their understanding of spirituality, sometimes it is helpful to restrict oneself from unnecessary distractions. This was a key learning for Swami Vivekananda as he strived towards enlightenment.

A spiritually rich life is only achievable by committing long lasting and dedicated effort to endure painful practices like standing in water all night or denying oneself any kind of physical rest, both of which Swami Vivekananda did regularly.

The journey should not be underestimated. One has to fully commit and devote themselves to following rigorous spiritual disciplines lest they fall off the path. Swami Vivekananda didn't lack perseverance on his own journey.

Adopting an ascetic lifestyle that involves leading a life of utter austerity is no simple task. By embracing such a lifestyle, Swami Vivekananda found strength to become more enlightened spiritually.

Let yourself experience the ultimate divine enlightenment that comprises of giving up worldly pleasures, avoiding all kinds of extravagances and allowing other notions to fade away. Similarly, Swami Vivekananda showed us the importance of sweat and sacrifice required to truly understand the spirit realm.