A healthy mind ensures overall well-being

We all are becoming increasingly health conscious these days. With the human population pressure, quality of nature’s elements (air, water, soil) diminishing, there is a renewed focus on taking care of one’s physical health. But this is not taking care of yourself in totality. Any physical discomfort is a sign that the body is not at ease. But in some form, the manifestation of any physical ailment has a connection to the mind. It is very important to heal the mind if we want to enjoy overall health benefits.

Like eating unhealthily, keeping negative information and processing negativity in the mind makes it vulnerable and, in turn, affects the overall well-being. Being selective about what information should to be consumed and how much of it needs to be consumed decides the state of our mental health. Too much information creates clutter in the mind, leading to confusion, lack of concentration, and irritability. Negative emotions are like wounds and if not addressed, may affect the mental equilibrium. It is, therefore, important to train the mind to be flexible, receptive yet able to eliminate the negative thoughts. Lack of flexibility causes discomfort in the mind.

PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE

There are different ways to prevent and address this imbalance. For starters, remember that “prevention is better than cure”. The root cause of all mental stress is the inability to listen to the mind, eliminate the negative thoughts, and take control of your thought processes. Treat your mind just like raising a child - you need to be patient and kind but ensure that you don’t give in to tantrums and unreasonable demands.

A weak mind gets affected easily. We tend to catch negative thoughts and vibrations from others, and if that is not looked into, then the negativity grows. It is, therefore, important to be proactive in keeping the mind healthy and strong rather than procrastinating or avoiding addressing the root causes. Prevention of emotional stress is bringing yourself to the realisation that you are the master of your mind and not the other way around. You choose what to feel and how to feel.

External factors can cause physical, financial, and professional setbacks, but if you are emotionally strong and stable, you will be able to think objectively and find solutions to overcome these setbacks. There will always be external influences, but how you process and react to those is critical for your overall well-being. Nurture and nourish your mind as much as you take care of your body.

- Courtesy: Rajyoga Meditation Center, Kingston (meditation courses and counselling are offered free of charge). Email: kingston@jm.brahmakumaris.org. Or follow them on Instagram: rajyoga_meditation_jamaica