Every thought and feeling that we create has an impact on our life, however small. We may not recognise this, and dismiss a harmful thought as ‘just a thought, nothing more…’ But if such thoughts are repeated often and turn into a pattern of thinking, it begins to show in our attitude and behaviour, and affects our life — including our health and relationships — in several ways.
For example, when we are relaxed and light, then those who live or work with us also feel easy. On the other hand, if we are aggressive or tense, then our vibrations alone can create stress and fear in our family and co-workers. This in turn affects their mind, body, and efficiency. When people are in a positive state of mind, they happily put in extra hours of work when required. But if the workplace is a cauldron of anxiety and dread, even routine work may not get done properly, because the people involved are distracted by their emotions.
If we want to put our life in order, then first of all we have to take care of our mind. Once we take the responsibility to do this, then self-empowerment becomes a way of life for us. All it needs is attention – on our thoughts and feelings. When there is this attention, it keeps away a lot of tension.
I, the soul, am the hub of my life and all its activities. When I keep myself mentally strong, light, and stable, my life will move along smoothly. The way to keep the self strong is to take out time – just a few minutes – at convenient intervals during the day to look within, watch my thoughts and feelings, understand why they are arising, and then, whenever needed, turn them in a positive direction. Changing the direction of our thoughts requires power. We can draw it from the highest source of spiritual energy, God. How do we do that? Just remember Him, with the recognition that I am a child of the Almighty… His powers and virtues are mine to claim, and to use in my life. This is what is called Rajyoga meditation. When we practise it regularly, our stock of energy is replenished, keeping us strong and able to deal with any situation without too much difficulty.
When the soul is empowered in this manner, its confidence and sense of self-worth naturally increase, and we begin to see ourselves in a more positive manner – not out of conceit, but from recognition of our innate qualities, which brings the realisation that the soul is a naturally pure and benevolent being. Then, when we remember that other people are also souls, our vision towards them changes. Acknowledging our spiritual kinship with the rest of humanity prompts us to accept the fact that all souls have some innate virtues, and like us they too deserve respect. We then begin to connect with others on the basis of shared values, which leads to healthy relationships.
To stay empowered, we have to give priority to our inner world. Most people devote their time, attention, and energy to sustaining and improving their external circumstances, including their physical health, finances, and possessions. When we ignore our inner self and its vital needs of peace, love, and power, we become weak and consequently unable to control our thoughts and feelings. As a result, our state of mind fluctuates according to external situations.
But when we turn our attention inward and invest time and effort in empowering the soul, we gain mastery over the mind. How we are feeling then no longer depends on what is happening in our life. The inner balance that is achieved with regular practice of meditation brings the ability to remain stable and respond appropriately to all situations. Such self-mastery has a positive impact on every aspect of our life, be it our health, relationships, or work. The ultimate result is a peaceful and happy life. All it takes is getting our priorities right.
B.K. Deepa is a Rajyoga teacher based in Mumbai.