Quote of the day by Sri T. Krishnamacharya: “Why do we need money beyond a point? If we are free of ill health…”

Tirumalai Krishnamacharya is widely regarded as the father of modern yoga. (Picture: X)

• Krishnamacharya urges balance between wealth and inner peace
• True wealth is health, relationships, and freedom from debt
• Contentment grows by valuing sufficiency over endless gain

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The mantra for modern living seems to be; Earn more. Buy more. Achieve more.

In an era where success is often measured by pay cheques, property and possessions, golden words from the world of yoga offer a genuine question, how much money is truly enough?

For many people, life has become a long race towards financial success. But the words of Tirumalai Krishnamacharya, widely regarded as the father of modern yoga, challenge this belief. He says, “Why do we need money beyond a point? If we are free of ill health, enmity and debt, is that not enough? Too much money only leads to less peace.”

Also read: Quote of the day by Shiv Nadar: “If you are calm about your ambitions, you become confident of achieving what you set out to do”

What does the quote mean?

• His words do not encourage a rejection of money. Instead, they are a calm invitation to rethink your priorities.
• Krishnamacharya lived a life rooted in discipline, learning and simplicity. Though known for shaping modern yoga practice across the world, his teachings went far beyond exercise. He often spoke about balance; between ambition and peace, effort and contentment.
• There is no denying that money matters. It provides food on the table, a roof overhead and access to healthcare and education. Without it, life can become uncertain and stressful. However, Krishnamacharya’s words show a turning point; where the moment when money stops serving us and begins controlling us. He says, once basic needs are met, the pursuit of more wealth can easily become endless. People work longer hours, accept heavier pressures and sacrifice precious time with loved ones. Instead of feeling secure, many feel anxious about maintaining their lifestyle or protecting what they have earned.
• Ironically, the comfort money promises can slowly give way to worry.

Lessons from the quote

• True wealth is often invisible, good health, harmonious relationships, and freedom from financial burden.
• Beyond a certain point, money does not multiply happiness; instead, it can multiply anxiety and responsibility.
• Contentment grows when you recognise the sufficiency of what you already have.
• Peace of mind is a rare currency in the modern world, and protecting it requires conscious choices.
• Simplicity is not poverty; it is the deliberate decision to value calm over excess.

Also read: Quote of the day by Osho: “Love is not a relationship. Love is a state of being...”

Tips to live by this wisdom

• Define your own idea of “enough” instead of chasing endless accumulation.
• Prioritise health and relationships above financial status.
• Reduce unnecessary financial pressure by avoiding debt where possible.
• Remember that time, attention, and peace are more valuable than possessions.
• Practise gratitude daily, it reminds you that richness often lies in what money cannot buy.