The question of life's purpose often leads us down paths of philosophy, religion, and existential thought, where answers range from divine connection to living out one's destiny.

However, what if the purpose was simpler, centered around the very act of being in a body?

A New Perspective on Existence

Consider the idea that the essence of life might be to fully engage with our physical existence. This notion is explored in the Pixar film Soul, where characters Joe Gardner and soul 22 navigate the complexities of life's purpose. In the movie, Joe, a passionate jazz musician, and 22, a soul reluctant to live, explore the concept of a "spark" - the passion or interest that might drive one's life. Through their adventures, they learn that life's meaning might not be about achievements or finding a single passion but experiencing the world through a corporeal form (Docter & Powers, 2020).

The Physicality of Life

Life's most profound experiences are deeply physical. Emotions like joy, sadness, or anger are not just mental constructs but visceral feelings that resonate through our bodies. This perspective challenges the ascetic practices where one might deny bodily pleasures for spiritual or moral gains. If life's purpose includes experiencing these sensations, then living well might mean embracing rather than rejecting these experiences.

Reimagining Daily Life

If we accept that our primary purpose is to experience life through our bodies, our daily routines could transform:

• Sensory Engagement: Every moment would be an opportunity to engage with the world. The smell of fresh bread, the warmth of sunlight, the texture of grass underfoot - all would be seen as integral to fulfilling life's purpose.
• Emotional Depth: Understanding emotions as physical experiences might lead to a deeper appreciation for human connection, empathy, and even the pain of loss or joy of love.
• Health and Well-being: Prioritizing physical health would not just be about longevity or appearance but about ensuring we can experience life to its fullest. Eating well, exercising, or even resting would take on new significance as acts of engaging with life.
• Mindfulness: There might be a shift towards living more mindfully, appreciating every physical sensation as part of the human experience, whether it's tasting food, feeling the wind, or simply noticing the rhythm of breathing.

Philosophical and Cultural Reflections

This viewpoint aligns with some Eastern philosophies like Buddhism, which emphasize living in the moment and appreciating the transient nature of physical experiences (Nhat Hanh, 1999). Conversely, it contrasts with certain religious practices that advocate for bodily denial, suggesting instead that physical experience is central to the human condition.

Conclusion

If our purpose in life was to experience being in a body well, our daily lives would likely become more about presence, sensory appreciation, and emotional engagement. This perspective doesn't negate other purposes but adds a layer of appreciation for the physical journey we're on, urging us to live each moment fully, with all its textures and colors.

References:

Docter, P. & Powers, K. (Directors). (2020). Soul [Film]. Pixar Animation Studios.
Nhat Hanh, T. (1999). The Miracle of Mindfulness: An Introduction to the Practice of Meditation. Beacon Press.

This article is written by And-El of CrystalWind.ca © 2025 crystalwind.ca.  You may share this article as long as you provide proper credit to the author, include a link to the original article, and do not alter the content. Commercial use is prohibited without permission.

And-El: The Archangelic Visionary Bridging Business and Spirituality
And-El combines spiritual wisdom with entrepreneurial expertise to guide humanity toward higher consciousness. With deep ties to Archangels, ancient civilizations, and Indigenous wisdom, his journey blends psychic mastery, crystal healing, and astrological insight. As a leader in ethical business and conscious marketing, And-El pioneers innovative strategies, merging spiritual ethics with modern technology to inspire growth and transformation.

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