Pondering Plastic Surgery

Question:n nLately, out of my insecurities, I have been toying with the idea of doing plastic surgery for my nose. Yet, at the same time, I am aware that I want to develop my spiritual life (I have been practicing yoga for 11 years and I've been teaching it for the past three years) in more depth. I am starting to meditate again. However, being so self-conscious physically (especially as I age) and being drawn to the spiritual life are creating a lot of chaos in my mind as I don't know what the drive for either is, although obviously the drive to meditate seems to make more sense to me. Can you let me know what the yoga/Ayurveda/ and your perspective is about the subject of changing one's physical appearance?nnThank you so much for your help.n nAnswer:n nI don’t know if there is an official Ayurvedic position on plastic surgery, but the basic idea of Yoga philosophy and Ayurveda is to restore balance and wholeness physically, mentally and spiritually. A treatment such as plastic surgery would only be considered if it were essential for the overall well being of the patient. Certainly in cases of disfigurement, reconstructive plastic surgery would make sense. In fact, in ancient India rhinoplasty has been practiced for over two thousand years for severed noses.n nIn your case since you state that your motivation arises from insecurity and concerns over the effects of aging, you will probably gain more lasting benefits by addressing your underlying insecurities, fears and beliefs than you would from plastic surgery. Making an effort to draw your self-value and worth through your essence rather than your outer appearance will have a profound influence on all aspects of your well being.n nLove,nDeepak