Value: Mindfulness - August 2025
Second Week: Keep the mind
It is well known that every relationship requires maintenance. Just like a house or a personal vehicle needs care and upkeep, our minds also need attention to stay sharp. Mindfulness is not just about preventing the mind from wandering; it's also about ensuring that it remains alert and accessible when we need it.
Reduce the noise of 'opinions'
Every TV channel presents strong opinions on economic, political, and social issues occurring around the world. Viewers often form their own opinions based on what they watch. This constant stream of opinions can overwhelm our minds, making it difficult to find peace and quiet. It's important to remember that we don't need to judge or form opinions about everything we see or hear. A simple question to ask yourself is: Do my opinions, or those of others, change the ongoing situation?
You may have noticed that traditional Indian music artists often begin their performances with a calm prayer before gradually increasing the intensity of the music. This initial moment of quietude is essential for tuning both their own minds and the minds of the audience. The same principle applies to us. When we are about to engage in any activity that requires our full attention, we should actively work to reduce the inner noise in our minds.
One Japanese surgeon has made it his regular practice to remain quiet for a few moments along with his fellow surgeons and nurses before every surgical operation. He noticed that he and others could mindfully engage in the surgery whenever he practised it. Why not try this when you pick up any important task that needs full attention?
Cut down the unhealthy habit of wool-gathering
The mind serves as a storehouse of energy, driving our senses to engage in various activities. When our senses become disengaged, the mind becomes more active. A mind that conserves its energy should focus on positive thinking or spiritual contemplation. However, if we fail to direct our thoughts properly, the mind may fall into the habit of daydreaming, also known as wool-gathering. Even more detrimental is the tendency to worry.
How can we overcome this unhealthy habit? First, recognize that thoughts can lead to more thoughts, whether they originate from your memory or external sources. Second, understand that you have the power to stop the momentum of these thoughts. Third, be cautious; using substances to block thoughts can lead to addiction. Lastly, avoid lethargy or excessive sleep when trying to reduce your thought flow.
One effective spiritual practice is japa or deep contemplation on verses from sacred texts, ideally under the guidance of a qualified teacher. Additionally, listening to the chanting of the Vedas or reciting Vedic mantras and stotrams can be very beneficial in overcoming both worry and the habit of daydreaming.
