How does one get out of the void? An endless darkness accompanied by constant overthinking and negative thoughts. It seems difficult and resembles a solution-less equation in which solving any derivative, results in another question. And the cycle repeats itself.
In the turmoil of continuously feeling compelled to expect desired results, one often falls into negative thoughts, self-doubt, and inner chaos. Is overthinking a contemporary conflict that individuals face nowadays? A long time ago, a fearless warrior faced the same turmoil of a crowded and distressed mind.
In Bhagavad Gita, the conversation between Arjuna and Krishna in the middle of the battlefield of Kurukshetra is a significant and insightful module in understanding how to control overthinking and negative thoughts.
1. Be consistent in training your mind.
The chain of control that descends from a source that demands power over everything in sight, but is it really possible to control everything? To answer every question that exists?
“The mind is restless, turbulent, strong and obstinate. Controlling it is like trying to control the wind.” - Arjuna (Chapter 6, Verse 34)
Krishna explains that controlling everything is like controlling the wind. When Arjuna shares his difficulties he acknowledges his struggle and promises Arjuna that ‘mind can be trained’ with the help of abhyasa (practise/art of learning) and vairagya (detachment/letting go).
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The trick is to master consistency!
Consistent effort in training your mind & always remembering that mind is a muscle which can be conditioned to adapt can be really helpful in countering overthinking.
Overthinking is normal, so don't be rough on yourself!
Detachment or Vairagya is a concept that does not actually imply that one must abandon everything or simply be nonchalant. Detaching is not giving up, Krishna advises Arjuna to accomplish his duties without being emotionally attached to the outcomes.
“You have the right to perform your duty, but not to the fruits of your actions.” — 2.47
Overthinking leads to the creation of multiple ‘what if’ timelines, that are made-up situations in our head. These are hypothetical scenarios, yet these what if resembles a version of our reality and are often driven by our negative thoughts.
What if I fail? What if they hate me? What if everyone judges me?
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Live in the present not in the future. Give your best no matter the fight as control instigates overthinking. So, free up your mind from the need to control and breathe! This assists in reducing anxiety and calms your inner turmoil leading to a serene mind.
3. Karma Yoga: The Path of Selfless Action
As illuminated by Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita, “Karma Yoga is the path of selfless action”.
He emphasized on working on a task with utmost resolution, dedication and devotion without expecting any personal gain. When doing a task, one must always give it full attention. If the mind is trained to engage fully when performing a task, it doesn't feel the need to drift around which leads to overthinking.
Also Read: 5 Ways to Deal with Monday Blues
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The focal point of attention should be in the present. Give your full attention to any task that you are engaging in, the task could be as basic as washing the dishes.
4. Respond, Not React to Negative Thoughts.
“Treat pleasure and pain, gain and loss, victory and defeat as the same.” - Chapter 2
Negative thoughts and overthinking arises because our mind constantly loses itself in the discourse of ‘Good or Bad’, ‘Like or Dislike’. The human mind has this habit of labelling and being in the continuous swirl of, “I am not good enough”, “I am a failure”, "this is bad”, “this is good” etc.
Krishna enlightens us to develop a secure and stable inner self which is not easily influenced by never-ending emotional ups and downs.
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When faced with negative thoughts, try to face them by observing the truth and reality of any statement that is on your mind. Analyse the thought and do not react to it!
Dhyana Yoga helps in understanding your inner consciousness and maintaining a positive relationship with yourself, which leads to controlling negative thoughts and overthinking. Our mind is not weak, its strength has always been borrowed to conquer.
“One must elevate, not degrade, the self by the self. The mind is both friend and enemy of the soul.” — Bhagavad Gita 6.5
Meditation aids in taking a step back and observing. This can help you learn the art of responding rather than reacting. The practice of Dhyana provides a personal realm — a space that separates you from your thoughts.
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Start your day with a 10-minute breath-focused meditation. Over time, your mind will no longer feel crowded with thoughts, and you will begin to regain your concentration.
Breathe.
Whenever you feel stuck at one point, bring your attention back to your breath.
Overthinking and negative thoughts are not something new. Even the greatest of warriors have faced the challenges of a restless mind, where one confronts an endless coil of thoughts. What we must remember is that not every rough patch lasts forever. With time and training, a person can achieve a focused mind — one that does not let negative thoughts or overthinking take control of their actions.
As Corrie Ten Boom says, "Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow, it empties today of its strength.” So, remember to give your best and live in the present. [Rh/VS]