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.

 

Value: Mindfulness - August 2025

First Week: Find the mind

We often hear the phrase "never mind!" used when someone is unconcerned about a situation. However, many of us may not be aware of where our minds truly are. We are not referring to a state of swoon or unconsciousness; rather, it is the predicament where the mind is lost and never to be found.

Typically, teenagers are seen as preoccupied with video games and chat rooms, but adults are not exempt from this behavior either. When our minds are not present, how can we engage in any meaningful spiritual practice?

Find out where the mind gets trapped

To catch birds alive, a hunter uses a net. Similarly, our minds can become trapped on the internet! What is this trap? Our minds are overloaded with information, much of which is irrelevant to our personal growth. Children, in particular, are filled with information that they often repeat without fully processing or understanding it.

We are mind-full rather than mindful in our daily lives. While engaging in one task, we frequently allow ourselves to be distracted by multiple other tasks that demand our attention simultaneously. Many people experience FOMO (fear of missing out), even while on vacation. We walk, drive, and even sleep with our mobile phones in hand! The Upanishads warn us: "शब्दजालं महारण्यं चित्तभ्रमाणकारणम्" – The net of words (sounds) is a vast forest that causes the bewilderment of the mind.

Quietly observe where your mind is getting trapped. Every day, spend some time staying away from the regular routine of life, and see if you can remain free from being oppressed by the world around you.

Be alert about the negative influence

It is one thing to lose ourselves in the busyness of daily life, leaving no space for reflection and tranquility; it is quite another to allow negative thoughts and prejudiced views to cloud our minds. We must intentionally expose ourselves to positive influences to build resilience against negativity.

A well-known scientist was once asked if anyone had ever positively influenced him. He replied affirmatively, "Yes, my servant did!" He explained, "One winter, I was sitting near the heater and felt very warm. I called my servant to lower the heat, but he smiled and said, 'Instead of asking me to reduce the heat, why don't you move your chair a little farther away from the heater? That would solve the problem!' He taught me an invaluable lesson: whenever you feel deprived of something in life, mentally distance yourself from it, and you will feel relieved immediately!"

Even if you cannot avoid the company of those who have only negative thoughts and opinions, try to mentally distance yourself, like the way Lord Shiva drank the poison: he neither swallowed to pollute Himself, nor did He threw up to endanger others!

Value: Steadiness- July 2025

Fifth Week: Self-abidance Sthitaprajna

The most distinctive aspect of the Bhagavad Gita is its portrayal of an enlightened person who navigates a world filled with unpredictability and contradictions. Contemplating the description of a person with steady wisdom inspires one to engage in sadhana, or spiritual practice.

Daily chant verses from Bhagavad Gita chapter 2.54 to 2.72

To achieve true freedom, we first need a clear vision of our best selves. In management, there's a saying: "Picturize before you actualize." This principle also applies to the quest for liberation.

A detailed description of the mindset, perceptions, actions, and reactions of an enlightened person can guide our daily lives. For instance, it is noted in verse 2.64 that being free from attraction and repulsion when perceiving objects and beings can help us attain serenity, even without withdrawing into solitude. This serenity alleviates all sorrows, leading to a steady mind without oscillation (2.65).

Only a steady mind can engage in meditation, and through the stillness achieved in meditation, one can find peace. Lasting happiness cannot be attained without maintaining a steady inner peace (2.66).

If you chant these verses along with contemplation on the meanings, you will see a significant change in your attitude toward the world around you. The vision of realization will also become clear.

Maintain equanimity in all situations

There are two important assertions of the ego: one is 'I' and the other is 'My.' The first assertion demands attention from everyone. When it is deprived of this attention, it can feel angry, isolated, and lost. As a result, it may react with frustration and ignore those who do not acknowledge its presence. 

Recently, I was at an airport counter inquiring about my seat. The person behind the desk didn’t even bother to look at me while answering my question. Although I felt ignored, I reminded myself, "This person doesn't even know me; why should I feel insulted?" With strangers, we often don’t mind being overlooked, but it affects us differently when it comes to those who know us. In such situations, it is important to remain equanimous. This perspective is crucial if you want to be free from ego and stay as the calm, pure, and serene Self.

Pujya Gurudev frequently reminded us about the second assertion of the ego regarding ownership: "It is acceptable to possess things of the world; however, it would be a tragedy if those things ended up possessing us." What we own today once belonged to someone else, and eventually, it will belong to someone in the future.

A possessive ego is always insecure, and this insecurity leads to anguish, restlessness, and fear. Living in fear, we can neither find happiness in the world nor abide in our serene Self. 

Value: Steadiness- July 2025

Fourth Week: Be steadfast in sadhana

Spiritual paths are numerous, and so are the practices, known as sadhana. In the path of devotion, there are nine prescribed practices. In the path of yoga, the focus is on the daily practice of specific asanas and meditation. In the path of action, the emphasis is on transforming selfish actions into selfless acts dedicated to God. Meanwhile, the path of wisdom involves study, reflection, and contemplation, which lead to a deep abidance in the Self.
 
Regardless of the chosen path and practices, the most important element is steadfastness. Lord Krishna also described the qualities of one who is liberated while living as a person of 'steady' wisdom.

Sadhana is a constant self-effort

You are likely familiar with these two words: prarabdha and purushartha, which translate to destiny and self-effort. Destiny refers to the outcomes of your past actions, while self-effort is how you respond to those outcomes and work to overcome any misunderstandings about yourself and your life. In essence, every spiritual practice (sadhana) is an act of self-effort.
 
Since the results of your past actions come to you without your choice and without interruption, it is essential to engage constantly in the sadhana of self-effort. Imagine standing in the middle of a fast-flowing river; to remain steady, you need to either hold on to something firmly or sit in a boat that moves gently with the current.
 
The path of devotion encourages you to surrender completely to the feet of the Lord, while the path of wisdom can be likened to travelling in a boat of knowledge that helps you navigate the turbulent waters, preventing you from sinking. Lord Krishna advises Arjuna 'सर्वं ज्ञानप्लवेनैव वृजिनं सन्तरिष्यसि'  - you will cross over all the evils with the boat of Knowledge alone.

Be regular in what, when and how you do the sadhana

Once, Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was approached by a distressed villager. The villager complained that, despite his many efforts, he had been unable to find groundwater in his field for irrigation. Sri Ramakrishna asked how many places he had dug to find the water. The farmer replied that he had tried 10 to 20 spots, digging 10 to 20 feet in each location. 
 
Sri Ramakrishna paused for a moment and said, "If you had dug in one spot as deep as 50 to 60 feet instead of trying many spots, you would have found the water!"
 
Most of us are impatient when it comes to persisting steadily with a chosen practice or sadhana. We want quick results. Our minds have become accustomed to obtaining everything quickly, much like buying desired items online. However, you cannot become proficient in maintaining a steady asana without daily practice. The same principle applies to worship, study, and selfless actions. 
 
Each of us carries the baggage of our past experiences. It will resurface on its own accord. Only through constant self-effort can we prepare ourselves to face the unpredictable and strive for personal freedom. There is no shortcut in sadhana. If you choose the path of action, continue without seeking recognition. In the path of yoga, work on perfecting your posture and often practice sitting with a calm mind. On the path of devotion, surrender everything to the Lord and let go of all worries. Lastly, on the path of knowledge, delve deeply into study and reflection to become fully free of inner urges and confusions.

 Value: Steadiness- July 2025

Third Week: Build confidence

When you go shopping, you often notice various items displayed with price tags attached. You understand that these prices include a profit margin, and the actual cost of producing the product is often much lower. However, when you genuinely need something, you are usually willing to pay the full price because its value enhances your life or work.

 

Now, consider your self-worth. If you have an inflated view of yourself, it's referred to as high self-esteem, while a diminished view is called low self-esteem. Both extremes are undesirable. Many people believe that high self-esteem fosters confidence, but it can sometimes lead to egotism and arrogance. True self-esteem is crucial for living with motivation. So, how can you develop a genuine sense of self-esteem? What is your real worth?

Recognize your areas of weakness

Thinking about your weaknesses can often lead to low self-esteem. You may feel shy and wish that no one notices or talks about your shortcomings, which can result in constant worry. However, closing your eyes doesn’t make the world disappear. Instead, take a moment to list the weaknesses you want to overcome and start working on them. Allow yourself the time you need to improve; it doesn’t have to happen overnight.

 

In the Mahabharata, there is a story about Ekalavya, a tribal boy who was unable to learn from Dronacharya due to his low birth. Despite this, he did not let it deter him. He created an image of Guru Drona and, with great reverence, taught himself archery over the years. Eventually, he even became skilled enough to challenge the skilful archer, Arjuna. He became worthy enough that Dronacharya himself came searching for him!

 

In the Ramayana, we encounter the tale of an uneducated tribal woman who, guided by her Guru, devotedly chanted the name of Sri Rama for many years. She, living alone in a small abode in the forest, never allowed her situation to overwhelm her. In response to her dedication, Sri Rama himself visited her to offer his blessings. 

 

These and many such stories illustrate that it is indeed possible to overcome weaknesses by consistently working on them and seeking the right guidance. Take one at a time and work on it. You become increasingly aware of your worth.

Recognize your areas of strength

No one is born useless. A Sanskrit saying is: अमन्त्रमक्षरं नास्ति नास्ति मूलमनौषधम्। अयोग्यः पुरुषो नास्ति योजकस्तत्र दुर्लभः॥ This translates to: No letter is not a mantra, no plant is without medicinal value, and no person is inherently unworthy; however, finding someone who utilises these qualities well is rare! God has not created anything in this world that is worthless. Discovering your strengths boosts your confidence, and steadily enhancing them should be a joyful endeavour.

 

During my time as a student in the Vedanta course at Sandeepany, I was asked to teach a group of seekers who attended a month-long spiritual camp. When Pujya Gurudev visited to inaugurate the camp, I approached him for his blessings. As it was my first time taking on the role of a teacher, I felt hesitant. He looked into my eyes and said, "Go and share what you know. Speak not from the book; instead, express your own understanding of the subject, fearlessly!" 

His words invigorated my spirit. From that moment on, I never doubted my ability to convey what I had learned to those interested in understanding it. His encouraging words continue to resonate in my mind and serve as a guiding light in my journey toward self-improvement.

Value: Steadiness- July 2025

Second Week: Unclutter the mind

When a room is filled with too many things, we feel congested; when it is spacious and uncluttered, we feel comfortable and relaxed. This is also why our mind feels at ease and relaxed when we see a large landscape or open space. If this applies to what is outside the mind, it holds true within the mind as well. The Sanskrit word 'kha' means sky or space. When the mind is uncluttered and has very few thoughts, it is called 'su-kham' or joy. Conversely, if there are too many thoughts, it is 'duh-kham' or agitation.

What causes the clutter in the mind? Its wandering nature.

Observe the wandering mind

In the Bhagavad Gita, there is an insightful conversation between Lord Krishna and Arjuna about the fickle nature of the mind. When Arjuna asks, "How can I take care of my wandering mind?" Lord Krishna provides a clear answer: "By practice and detachment."

 

What kind of practice? Whenever you notice that your mind has wandered, bring it back to your point of focus immediately. To do this effectively, you must first establish a specific point of attention. This process is akin to an expert singer who selects a raga and elaborates on it in various ways without losing focus on that raga.

 

An effective practice is worshipping a personal deity, known as upasana. In this practice, the devotee offers various auspicious items to the deity's form and chants relevant mantra-s and Vedic hymns, all while maintaining their attention on the deity.

 

As you become more observant, you will eventually identify the elements that distract your focus and contribute to the wandering of your mind. The detachment will follow when the consistent practice intensifies. 

Chant and listen to the mantra-s

Removing unwanted thoughts is a process of uncluttering the mind. When a thought arises, we tend to 'listen' to it, even if it is fleeting. This inner chatter generated by the constant stream of thoughts leads to mental fatigue and can quickly tire us out. Perhaps this is why many young people put on headphones to listen to music and distract themselves from this inner noise.

 

However, simply escaping our thoughts temporarily does not actually clear our minds. In contrast, regularly practising the repetition of mantras can be beneficial. How does this work? By verbally repeating the mantra-s, listening to them, visualising the form of the deity, or contemplating the meaning in our minds, we can maintain focus. 

Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda suggested that all the sadhaks take up Likhita Japa -repeated writing of a mantra as well. When practised daily for 10 to 20 minutes, the mind becomes accustomed to this focused state, even while engaging in everyday activities.

 

A fully uncluttered mind is like a still lake, where you can clearly see your own reflection. The most important thing is consistency in practice. I have closely observed Pujya Gurudev engaging in japa — the repetition of mantras — whether he was travelling or sitting quietly. His clarity of thought and the way he delivered his teachings with utmost lucidity proved that his regular practice had made him perfect.

  Value: Steadiness- July 2025

First Week: Stability - sthairyam

In all pursuits in life, lasting results only come when we are consistent in what we do. When drops of water repeatedly hit a granite rock, it can eventually create an opening. I asked a famous singer, who has been singing for over 40 years, about his daily routine. He said, 'I practice daily for 5-8 hours.' I was surprised. 'You are an expert, so why do you still need practice?' His answer was simple: "I am an expert only because I practice daily!' 

Practice daily sitting in one comfortable posture for some time

In today’s world, a hurried life filled with overwhelming commitments leaves us little time to relax and sit without any agenda. We often see this as a waste. The body is merely an external expression of the mind. If the mind is unsettled, the body will be restless. Conversely, if the mind is focused and steady, the body will stay still. They are deeply connected. To cultivate inner stillness, we need to practice sitting quietly. To begin, find a comfortable posture for yourself, स्थिरमासनं सुखम्. The Bhagavad Gita guides us on how to do this.

शुचौ देशे प्रतिष्ठाप्य स्थिरमासनमात्मनः।  Firmly sitting down on a seat in clean spot, समं कायशिरोग्रीवं धारयन्नचलं स्थिरः।संप्रेक्ष्य नासिकाग्रं स्वं दिशश्चानवलोकयन् Keeping the body, head and neck erect and still, staying steady, looking at the tip of the nose-without looking around,प्रशान्तात्मा विगतभीर्ब्रह्मचारिव्रते स्थितः।मनः संयम्य मच्चित्तो युक्त आसीत मत्परः One should remain steadily seated with a quiet mind, free from fear, staying firm in being free of sensuality, and with the mind controlled by concentration, fixed on Me (the Lord), the supreme Goal.

The benefit of doing this will be experienced only after many weeks or even months. Do not be in a hurry to change your practice. Continue your practice at the same time every day.

Watch your breath when you are alone

In the initial stages of staying still, the mind tends to wander habitually. To help keep the mind focused, begin by observing the most immediate activity occurring within you: your breath! Our bodies breathe automatically, even while we sleep. This involuntary process sustains us as we experience the consequences of our past actions.

When you consciously shift your attention to the rhythm of your breath—known as प्राणवीक्षणम् (Prāṇavīkṣaṇam)—you will find that your mind becomes less prone to wandering. However, this practice requires ongoing effort, as the mind often turns routine actions into mechanical responses. 

To simplify this practice, try to engage in it whenever you have free time, whether you are alone, watching TV, or driving. Just remember not to close your eyes during these activities, especially while driving! Additionally, the practice of upasana, or daily worship of a chosen deity, can help you achieve mental steadiness. Focusing your mind on something greater than itself can enhance your inner confidence and strength.