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Vanaprastha

SalixIncendium

अग्निविलोवनन्दः
Staff member
Premium Member
Over the last year or so, I realize I’m transitioning into a more ascetic lifestyle…into what I’ve come to know as Vanaprastha (retiring into forest). I’ve shifted away from focus on climbing the corporate ladder into a job that pays substantially less but is stress-free and doesn't require my attention at every waking moment.

I’ve also offered my 21 year old daughter my house. I currently rent an apartment, which I will soon move out of, because it’s financially no longer viable. I don’t have a definite plan for my move, but I’m exploring more viable options. The luxuries I once enjoyed are no longer important to me.

Essentially, I’m trimming the fat from my life in favor of a simpler existence, while passing vital “life tools” to my daughter (or anyone else that wishes to listen to my inane psychobabble).

While this is more of a journalesque entry, I posted it in this DIR to learn if anyone else has had such a transitional experience, and if so, I’m interested to learn if there is anything I should expect that may be coming up “around the bend.”
 

Vinayaka

devotee
Premium Member
Yes. The guideline age is 72 (in my sampradaya) but it varies by individual. It's partly a function of what the body can do. It simply can't work as hard or as long.

I've simplified a lot as well, and this year I retired (at least for awhile) from the volunteer landscaping. It's been 13 years since I retired from teaching. The entire process, I've found to be quite natural. If I was widowed, divorced, or otherwise single, I'd be more like you. Not that I disagree with Boss, but compromise is part of marriage so we keep the house. We don't really want the hassle of selling it and moving, because we like were we are ... a back yard, good neighbours, etc.

But for me, it's really not the external, but the internal that needs to get simplified. Sadhana for me is now 1.5 hours, so there's a general higher degree of religiousity. That's the whole point.

Best wishes entering this stage of life.
 

Aupmanyav

Be your own guru
I have done what all was to be done. Written the will*, detailed the cremation thing (put it on the Facebook for relatives). So in a way I am already 'gone'. Now I will utilize my time in enjoying the grandchildren's company and eat what I like. Not much to advice children, they are on their own. Vanaprastha or Sannyasa? :D
* Son to care about my money or my wife's. We are no longer involved.
 
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SalixIncendium

अग्निविलोवनन्दः
Staff member
Premium Member
It's been over a year since I posted this. My daughter is officially moved into and has taken over my house, and today is my last day in my apartment with all my "stuff." Tomorrow, I will be loading up a truck, bringing all my belongings to my daughter's house, and save some clothing and something to sleep on, she will go through it, take what she wants, and the rest will be going to Goodwill.
 

Aupmanyav

Be your own guru
Salix, will you, then, live in rented apartments? InshAllah, I will complete my 80th this September. I cannot do that now, even if I have am in the 'Sanyasa' age, as my wife would not allow it. And by my marriage vows, I cannot make her unhappy. If she predeceases me, then I will be in a quandary. I have already transferred my apartment in his name. My son may want my presence to take care of his home and grandchildren, though he has the option to call in his in-laws. I cannot move to an 'ashram' because I am too much of a maverick, a non-vegetarian and one who likes his drinks. No 'ashram' rule will not suit me. Living alone at this age has its problem, disease and safety. So, let us see what happens. Why make plans which may not be required (I won't need any if I die first)? So, be happy in whatever situation one is. :)
 
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