Finding Peace in Anxious Times: A Simple Path to Overcoming Anxiety

Nature’s Solace: Listening to Soft Music or Enjoying Your Surroundings

When I feel anxious, I sit alone in an open space, listen to some soothing music, or simply enjoy my surroundings. Taking time out for oneself can be incredibly therapeutic and can help in gaining a better understanding of one's feelings.

Guidance from the Shastras: The Power of Bhagavad Gita

The teachings of the Bhagavad Gita can offer great solace to those struggling with anxiety. I started reading it in 1969, following a suggestion from my friend, who advised me to read it along with the Mahabharata and Upanishads. Inspired by his experience and example, I began my journey to understand the profound wisdom contained within these ancient texts.

Devoting Time: A Daily Ritual

I started reading the Gita for about an hour daily, waking up at 4 am to immerse myself in the original Sanskrit text with translations in Hindi. I read three to four slokas each day and often made my own translations to ensure a deeper understanding. I referred to the Mahabharata for context and Upanishads for elaboration. This practice helped me to integrate the teachings of the Gita into my daily life.

Impact on Academic and Personal Life

My approach to reading the Gita also had a profound impact on my academic life at the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). Many students struggled with indecision and procrastination, but by dedicating time to read the Gita, they were able to improve their grades and thrive in their careers. Even weaker students from reserved categories, who often left the institute without a certificate, were able to return successfully for professional exams after studying the Gita.

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International Recognition and Impact

Not just in India, but across the world, the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita have found resonance. Figures from various fields, including philosophy, literature, and politics, have acknowledged its profound influence:

Henry David Thoreau: In his book 'Walden', Thoreau referenced the Bhagavad Gita, highlighting its importance. Herbert Hesse: Hesse believed that the Bhagavad Gita is a beautiful revelation of life's wisdom. Ralph Waldo Emerson: The noted American essayist was deeply influenced by the Gita, praising its philosophical insights. Wilhelm von Humboldt: The philosopher and linguist pronounced the Gita as a profound text, enriching one's spiritual life. Alfred E. Smith: The former Governor of New York found courage in the Bhagavad Gita to support Indian independence. Bulent Ecevit: The Turkish Prime Minister cited the Gita as a source of moral fortitude. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam: The 11th President of India was known to read the Gita even though he was a Muslim. Narendra Modi: The Prime Minister of India strongly advocates the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. Will Smith: The Hollywood actor found guidance in the Gita.

Finding Inner Peace in Troubled Times

The Bhagavad Gita teaches us to focus on our duties and obligations, rather than the outcomes. It encourages us to perform our actions without attachment to the results, akin to a soldier in battle. Applying this principle can help us navigate the complexities of life and find inner peace amid anxiety.

Conclusion

By dedicating even a small amount of time each day to read the Bhagavad Gita and integrate its teachings into our lives, we can find a valuable source of peace and guidance. Whether it's through listening to music or through the ancient wisdom of the Gita, taking time for oneself is a simple yet powerful step towards overcoming anxiety.

Citations:

Anxiety is one of the most common things that people feel nowadays. It arises from our hectic lifestyle and the constant rush to achieve more. In this fast-paced world, we tend to forget that we need time for ourselves to understand our feelings and why we are anxious. The teachings of the Bhagavad Gita can offer great solace to those struggling with anxiety. I started reading it in 1969, following a suggestion from my friend, who advised me to read it along with the Mahabharata and Upanishads. Inspired by his experience and example, I began my journey to understand the profound wisdom contained within these ancient texts. Henry David Thoreau: In his book 'Walden', Thoreau referenced the Bhagavad Gita, highlighting its importance. Ralph Waldo Emerson: The noted American essayist was deeply influenced by the Gita, praising its philosophical insights. Bulent Ecevit: The former Turkish Prime Minister cited the Gita as a source of moral fortitude. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam: The 11th President of India was known to read the Gita even though he was a Muslim. Narendra Modi: The Prime Minister of India strongly advocates the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. Will Smith: The Hollywood actor found guidance in the Gita.