In the past few weeks, I have forgotten what stress is. Not just that, my sleep quality has improved, I feel complete control over my emotions, and my focus is sharper than ever. How did I achieve this? Daily meditation. I used to meditate occasionally, but now I’ve made it a daily ritual, and the results have been incredible.
Meditation is a practice that centers the mind and body, promoting calmness and heightened awareness. Among the many techniques, Krishna beautifully describes one in the Bhagavad Geeta. “By blocking external distractions, focusing attention on the space between the eyebrows, and balancing the breath through the nostrils, one gains mastery over the senses, mind, and intellect.” Anyone who practices this, free from desire, fear, and anger, experiences true freedom and inner peace.
How does it work? Or does it…
When you try to start meditating, it’s hard to stay focused. Within seconds, the mind tends to wander. Yuval Noah Harari, the Israeli historian, shared a similar experience in 21 Lessons for the 21st Century. Reflecting before trying meditation, he thought, “I was the master of my own life, the CEO of my own brand.” But, within moments into his first session of meditation, he realized he lacked control over his own mind. He was unable to stabilize his mind.
“The deepest source of suffering is your own mind,” he wrote. Stress isn’t caused by external conditions; it’s how your mind reacts. By learning to control the mind, you can overcome stress.
When you meditate, you become aware of distractions, emotions, and impulses, but instead of reacting to them, you learn to observe them calmly and let them pass. Over time, this practice strengthens your ability to control automatic responses, stay centered in challenging situations, and make conscious, thoughtful choices.
Reading Bhagwad Geeta and meditation
It was 6 years ago, I decided to read Bhagwad Geeta. That is when I discovered this meditation technique.
Meditation is a powerful tool for self-mastery, but it’s only one part of the journey toward a fulfilling life. Gaining control over your mind through meditation gives you the strength to manage stress and cultivate inner peace, but it’s essential to know where to direct this newfound focus and calm.
This is where the Bhagavad Geeta comes in as a guide. The teachings of the Geeta provide a roadmap for living a balanced and purposeful life. It offers timeless wisdom on making decisions aligned with your values, handling desires without becoming consumed by them, and acting with integrity regardless of circumstances. By integrating the guidance of the Geeta, you can channel your mental clarity and self-control towards meaningful actions, relationships, and personal growth.
Together, meditation and the Bhagavad Geeta empower you to lead a life that isn’t just free of stress, but also rich in purpose, wisdom, and resilience.