Ask a Naturopathic Doctor: When the Mind Isn’t Enough—Using Kluges for Success

Our brains are only physically capable of a certain amount of mental power and self-discipline at any point in time, just as our muscles can only lift a certain amount of weight. Correspondingly, each can be built up to surprising levels with training. Depending on our starting point, this takes time and needs to be done carefully and slowly to avoid damage to body and mind.

While we are developing mental strength, we can use “kluges” to support ourselves in all areas of life.

The word kluge, from the German word meaning smart, means a patchwork solution that succeeds in solving a particular problem or performing a specific task, especially in the computer world. When used correctly, kluges are eventually replaced by a more efficient and permanent solution.

Examples of kluges include making lists, using calculators, having cell phone contacts, setting alarm clocks and meditation timers and enlisting therapists and life coaches. All of these helpful acts support or replace mental functions that we can develop: memory, concentration, presence, deep awareness, self-discipline, inner healing and much more that we have forgotten.

On a profound level, most of modern life is a kluge or crutch: phones, computers, cars, drugs, books, doctors, religions…all helping us get things done: communicating, staying organized, getting healthy, praying…until we realize that we are able to do these things more elegantly and efficiently using our minds and energies.

This may seem preposterous—and it is for most of our current modern world. We have forgotten that we have deep capabilities and persist in thinking that progress means more technology. Technology is a means to help us have a lifestyle that allows us to work on developing ourselves; if we mistake kluges for the end versus the means, we lose the most interesting, sustainable and satisfying possibilities for our human lives, at least for this round, smile…