<P> Self - denial (related but different from self - abnegation or self - sacrifice) is an act of letting go of the self as with altruistic abstinence--the willingness to forgo personal pleasures or undergo personal trials in the pursuit of the increased good of another . Various religions and cultures take differing views of self - denial, some considering it a positive trait and others considering it a negative one . According to some Protestants, self - denial is considered a superhuman virtue only obtainable through Jesus . Some critics of self - denial suggest that self - denial can lead to self - hatred . </P> <P> There is evidence brief periods of fasting, a denial of food, can be beneficial to health in certain situations . Self - denial is sometimes related to inhibitory control and emotional self - regulation, the positives of which are dealt with in those articles . As people grow accustomed to material goods they often experience hedonic adaptation, whereby they get used to the finer things and are less inclined to savor daily pleasures . Scarcity can lead people to focus on enjoying an experience more deeply, which increases happiness . </P> <P> Others argue self - denial involves avoidance and holding back of happiness and pleasurable experiences from oneself that is only damaging to other people . Some argue it is a form of micro-suicide because it is threatening to an individual's physical health, emotional well - being, or personal goals . </P>

Difference between self denial and denial of self