Ascetics are individuals who practice severe self-discipline and abstain from various forms of indulgence, often for spiritual or religious reasons. They may renounce physical pleasures, such as food, comfort, and social interactions, to focus on their inner life and personal growth. This lifestyle is commonly associated with various religious traditions, including Buddhism, Hinduism, and Christianity. The goal of asceticism is often to achieve a higher state of consciousness or spiritual enlightenment. Ascetics may engage in practices like meditation, fasting, and solitude to deepen their understanding of themselves and their beliefs. Notable ascetics include figures like Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) and Saint Anthony of the Desert.