Control the mind is often seen as one of the most challenging tasks for human beings. Is it possible to achieve this? According to Lord Shri Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita, the answer is a resounding yes. In this article, we will delve into Lord Krishna’s teachings from Chapter 6 of the Bhagavad Gita, where He provides expert guidance on mastering the mind through practice (Abhyasa) and detachment (Vairagya).
Understanding the Restless Nature of the Mind
In Chapter 6, Verse 34 of the Bhagavad Gita, Arjun expresses the difficulty of controlling the mind. He compares it to controlling the wind, emphasizing its restlessness and fickleness:
“The mind is restless, turbulent, strong, and obstinate. O Krishna, to subdue it is more difficult than controlling the wind.”
Even a warrior of Arjun’s caliber, renowned for his focus and discipline, finds the mind challenging to manage. This highlights the seriousness of the matter for us ordinary individuals.
Lord Krishna’s Response: Practice and Detachment
In the subsequent verse (Verse 35), Lord Shri Krishna validates Arjun’s concerns but provides a practical solution:
“O mighty-armed Arjun, undoubtedly, the mind is difficult to control. However, with practice (Abhyasa) and detachment (Vairagya), it can be subdued.”
This statement underscores that while controlling the mind is difficult, it is not impossible.
What is Practice (Abhyasa)?
Practice involves consistent effort toward mastering devotional activities. According to Srila Prabhupada, this includes the Nine Processes of Devotion (Navda Bhakti) as described in the Srimad Bhagavatam:
- Shravanam: Listening to the glories of God.
- Kirtanam: Chanting the name of God.
- Smaranam: Remembering Lord Krishna.
- Padasevanam: Serving the Lord’s feet.
- Archanam: Worshiping God.
- Vandanam: Offering prayers.
- Dasyam: Serving the Lord as a servant.
- Sakhyam: Becoming a friend of God.
- Atmanivedanam: Surrendering oneself to God.
By regularly engaging in these devotional acts, the mind becomes attuned to a higher purpose, naturally fostering detachment from material distractions.
What is Detachment (Vairagya)?
Detachment is not about renouncing the world artificially. Instead, it is about redirecting our attachments from materialistic pursuits to a higher spiritual goal—a relationship with Lord Krishna. Srila Prabhupada explains that detachment is a by-product of sincere devotional practice.
When our love shifts from material objects to the divine, true detachment arises effortlessly. This is the essence of Vairagya: moving away from the temporary and aligning ourselves with the eternal.
Why Practice and Detachment Matter
Lord Krishna created this world as a temporary abode full of challenges and sorrows (Dukh Aalayam Ashashwatam). Despite its impermanence, we often waste our lives pursuing transient joys, ignoring the ultimate manual of life—the Bhagavad Gita.
The goal of life is not just material happiness but eternal bliss through self-realization. By practicing the nine processes of devotion and cultivating detachment, we can achieve this ultimate goal.
Steps to Control the Mind
To summarize, here are the actionable steps to control the mind as per Lord Krishna’s teachings:
- Practice the Nine Processes of Devotion: Engage in Shravanam, Kirtanam, and other devotional acts regularly.
- Develop Detachment: Redirect your focus from material pursuits to spiritual goals.
- Focus on God: Meditate on the name, form, and attributes of Lord Krishna.
- Stay Consistent: Consistency in practice is key to overcoming the fickleness of the mind.
- Have Faith: Trust in Lord Krishna’s words and believe in your ability to master the mind.
Conclusion
Controlling the mind is undoubtedly challenging, but it is not beyond reach. By following the expert advice of Lord Shri Krishna—consistent practice and detachment—you can master your mind and lead a life of peace and fulfillment.
So, why wait? Start today. Embrace the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and take the first step toward self-mastery.
FAQs
Q1. What does Lord Krishna say about controlling the mind?
Lord Krishna acknowledges that controlling the mind is difficult but emphasizes that it is achievable through practice and detachment.
Q2. How can devotional service help in controlling the mind?
Devotional service, including listening, chanting, and remembering God, helps in focusing the mind on higher spiritual goals, reducing its restlessness.
Q3. Why is detachment important in controlling the mind?
Detachment allows us to let go of material distractions and align ourselves with spiritual objectives, making it easier to control the mind.
About The Author
