Mann Ka Satvik Ahaar

The identification and attachment we have towards our body is so strong that to come out of it is not easy. It takes a lot of effort and perseverance to notice that we are repeatedly performing unconscious bodily actions and not even aware of it. For example, it could be some particular body movement, it could be gulping down saliva or it could even be the blinking of our eyelids.

If we can manage to remain aware during the action itself, then slowly yet surely we can come out of this habitual unconsciousness that we have harbored since lifetimes. Most of the time however, movements of our body happen without our conscious mind registering them. Therefore, we are missing out, not only on the opportunity to become aware using this wonderful tool of the body, but even on valuable time, as time once gone can never return.

Body language is very specific. Whatever our mind thinks gets reflected on our face. Adults may try to hide their feelings but certain emotions, particularly anger, frustration, greed and even love simply will be noticeable. We must be aware and conscious of what we think as negative emotions alter our body chemistry, affecting every area of our lives. It is therefore important to know how our mind and emotions work so that we can come out of this conditioned existence into vaster being.

Ashrams, gurudwaras, and temples are like hospitals, holy scriptures are like medicine prescriptions and Gurus and saintly people are like doctors who diagnose our illness and cure us. They do this by helping us to understand and train our mind so that we can live skillfully. The words and instructions of the Guru need to be implicitly followed if there is to be any real transformation in our life. Otherwise, it is like this – if someone were to put the tastiest food in his mouth but before swallowing and ingesting it, it is removed, then he does not get the nutrition from that food. Likewise, words of wisdom which Masters have uttered need to be contemplated, chewed thoroughly and digested in order to extract their essence.  When we live our life according to that, only then will we get the true benefits.

Our mind has immense potential and also the power to heal. If we are physically unwell, through the power of positive thinking, we can actually cure ourselves. We become our own best friend when we do that; negative thinking makes our mind into our worst enemy, causing both mental and physical illness. We need to have firm faith in the Lord that regardless of outer circumstances, He is always with us. We are His children, so what does it matter what outer conditions are? He is there to look after us. We have to always remember that the ultimate happiness is only in Parmatman and not in any external things and conditions.