The Spiritual Cause of Disease (And How to Heal It) – Paramahansa Yogananda

Summary

In this profound teaching from Paramahansa Yogananda, the power of thought is explored as a transformative force in both physical and mental health. Through personal experiences with his guru, Yogananda demonstrates how the mind’s beliefs shape the body’s condition, revealing that our thoughts can either heal or harm us. The story emphasizes the importance of strong, positive beliefs and meditation to harness the power of the mind. Yogananda's journey teaches us that faith in ourselves, focus, and awareness of our thoughts can unlock our true potential for healing and growth.

Takeaways

• 😀 The power of thought can deeply influence our physical and mental well-being, and it has the potential to heal long-standing issues.
• 😀 Negative beliefs and self-defeating thoughts can contribute to chronic ailments, while positive and powerful thoughts can bring healing.
• 😀 Faith in oneself and the power of thought are essential to overcoming physical limitations and illness.
• 😀 Your mind governs your body—believing in your strength and health can lead to real, tangible changes in your physical state.
• 😀 The mind can create and sustain the body, meaning your current mental state influences not only your physical health but your intellect as well.
• 😀 Meditation helps in observing and controlling thoughts, which is crucial for using the power of thought effectively.
• 😀 By becoming more conscious of our thoughts, we can nurture positive, empowering thoughts and discard negative, harmful ones.
• 😀 Strengthening concentration and building mental focus are key to harnessing the power of thought.
• 😀 A powerful, focused thought, when repeated and visualized with belief, can manifest into reality.
• 😀 The story of Gurudev Lahiri Mahasaya’s experience with illness and healing emphasizes how the mind can both create health and make you sick, depending on your thoughts.
• 😀 The greatest medicine is having faith in yourself and believing in the power of your mind to heal and transform your life.

Q & A

What was Yoga Nandanda's initial concern about his body?

Yoga Nandanda's initial concern was his weak body and poor digestion, which made him feel inferior. Despite trying various remedies, nothing seemed to work, and he was often exhausted, even after minimal effort.

How did Guru Yukteswar explain the cause of Yoga Nandanda's weakness?

Guru Yukteswar explained that the root cause of Yoga Nandanda's weakness was his own beliefs and thoughts. He had limited his inner power by believing in his weakness, which affected his physical health and strength.

What advice did Guru Yukteswar give to Yoga Nandanda to overcome his weakness?

Guru Yukteswar advised Yoga Nandanda to change his mindset, believe in his strength and health, and hold those thoughts with full conviction. This mental shift, he explained, would lead to a transformation in his physical health.

What personal experience did Guru Yukteswar share to explain the power of thought?

Guru Yukteswar shared his own experience of recovering from typhoid. After feeling weak and sick, he trusted his guru's words and believed in his healing, which caused a dramatic shift in his health overnight.

How did Guru Yukteswar's health improve after he followed his guru's advice?

After trusting his guru and believing in his own recovery, Guru Yukteswar felt a surge of energy and vitality the next morning. His health dramatically improved, with his body even swelling as if it were regenerating itself.

What was the transformation in Guru Yukteswar's physical condition after believing in his guru's words?

Guru Yukteswar gained 22 kg in a few days, a transformation that left others astounded. His body had transformed overnight, demonstrating the power of belief and the mind's influence on physical health.

What did Yoga Nandanda learn from his experience with his guru regarding the power of thought?

Yoga Nandanda learned that his illness had vanished because he started believing in the power of his thoughts. He realized that faith in himself, rather than relying on external remedies, was the key to healing and improving his health.

How does Yoga Nandanda suggest using the power of thought to improve one's life?

Yoga Nandanda suggests training the mind to focus only on positive thoughts, absorb the good in every situation, and let go of negativity. By being conscious of thoughts, one can nurture empowering ones and discard destructive ones.

What role does meditation play in harnessing the power of thought?

Meditation helps increase consciousness and alertness, allowing individuals to observe their thoughts without judgment. This practice strengthens the ability to choose empowering thoughts and harness their full potential.

What practical advice does Yoga Nandanda give for developing concentration?

Yoga Nandanda advises building concentration by focusing the mind on a single, powerful thought. Repeatedly visualizing and feeling this thought helps direct mental energy toward a goal, ultimately making those thoughts a reality.