The aim is to redeem the nafs its original pure quality. "But only he (will prosper) that brings to Allah a sound heart; "(26/89) The negative portion of selfhood is under the command of the ruh (soul).
How are we to cleanse our impurities? By mortification and asceticism? 'No' says the Qur'an. "But seek, with the (wealth) which Allah has bestowed on thee, the Home of the Hereafter, nor forget thy portion in this world: but do thou good, as Allah has been good to thee, and seek not (occasions for) mischief in the land: for Allah loves not those who do mischief." (28/77) God has never imposes insurmountable barriers to man. … ,- no burden do We place on any soul, but that which it can bear,-…(7/42)" … Allah intends every facility for you; He does not want to put to difficulties…"(2/185) The way is the path shown in the Qur'an, performance of the duties mentioned in it and avoiding committing sins, that is all that is wanted. "Those who believe and (constantly) guard against evil" (10/63)
To make it more explicit, the path to follow is two-fold: Faith and performance of pious acts as indicated in the Qur'an. Faith in God, in His angels, in the books revealed, in the prophets, in the afterlife and in fate. Piety requires: Sharing one's assets; Regular prayers; Alms-giving; Forgiveness; Patience and resignation; fasting; beneficence; being faithful to one's words; justice and honesty; and wisdom.
Unless the nafs is purified and cleansed by the performance of the above enumerated requirements there will no salvation. And I do call to witness the self-reproaching spirit: (Eschew Evil). (75/2) In this way, by taming one's evil inclinations man takes the path that will lead him to the Supreme Being. This discipline will endow him with divine attributes and his own self will eventually be fused with the godhead. Come back thou to thy Lord, well pleased (thyself) and well pleasing unto Him! “Enter thou, then, among my Devotees! Yea enter thou my Heaven! (89/28-30)
(See. This present book, Piety, TEN FUNDAMENTAL PRAYERS IN PIETY )