In India, it is customary to fast during certain festivals. Why do we fast, what do we gain from it? A fast is meant to change our state of mind. It teaches us self-control. This control is then manifested in several areas of our life. We develop greater control over our words and behaviour. Often people remark that, “I did not mean to say it, but…” Verbal and physical aggression are both manifestations of loss of self-control to varying degrees. This happens when our spiritual energy is at a low level. Spiritual energy is not just a concept; it can be measured by machines that detect our aura – the energy field that surrounds us. This energy field is created by the vibrations we radiate, which in turn are generated by our thoughts and feelings.
The more positive, peaceful, and happy we are, the higher our energy level. This energy influences those around us, and they respond to our presence and behaviour accordingly. To keep our energy level high, we need to pay attention to our thoughts and the way we speak and behave. We can check and make a mental note of all the things we do that deplete our energy, such as getting irritated, or gossiping. There may be many things in our life that are not perfect, but how we see them and talk about them determines whether or not they reduce our energy level. For example, someone with a sanguine disposition would take even a major problem lightly, with the conviction that all will turn out well in the end. Such an attitude keeps them happy and stable amidst challenges.
On the other hand, a hypochondriac worries himself to illness. A cheery outlook may not solve our problems entirely, but it does protect us from fruitless worry and sorrow. It is far better to face challenges cheerfully than to be depressed by them. Situations come and go, and we should not let them rob us of our energy, which is a precious resource that needs to be conserved for facing all the challenges of life.
The words we use to characterise a situation or a person, mentally or verbally, affect our vibrations. When we choose positive terminology, it keeps our vibrations high. These vibrations have the power to even heal the body of ailments. We have all heard or read about people who defied their doctor’s prognosis to get better and live a long life, or proved an astrologer wrong by succeeding in a supposedly ill-starred enterprise. Sometimes such successes appear to be miracles because they challenge conventional wisdom. Our mind has the power to make such miracles happen.
But we can work miracles only when we have spiritual power. To accumulate that power, we have to get our priorities right. Our first priority should be the self, the soul. In other words, our mind and intellect should be positive and strong at all times. That will happen when my thoughts and feelings are in my control. The second priority is physical health, followed by relationships. When we get these top three priorities right, it will be easy to deal with everything else. I will not only be at my best but also be able to serve others in the best possible way.
B.K. Shivani is a well-known motivational speaker and Rajyoga teacher.