Principles of Mind Control. Swami Vivekananda

Summary

In the video script, Swami Vivekananda's teachings on mind control are highlighted through a story from his 1893 Chicago journey. He demonstrates mastery over the mind by effortlessly hitting targets with an air gun, a skill he claims comes from controlling one's thoughts. The script outlines principles for mind control, emphasizing the importance of finding joy in work and goals, cultivating powerful thoughts, avoiding guilt and complaints, using imagination constructively, and maintaining a balanced mental state. Swami Vivekananda encourages practicing these principles for true mind mastery and achieving one's goals.

Takeaways

• 🧘 Mind Control is Mastery: Swami Vivekananda emphasizes that true mind control is not just about stopping thoughts, but mastering the mind to produce powerful and positive actions.
• 🌊 The Power of Mind Over Matter: The story of the youth trying to shoot eggshells on water illustrates how mastering the mind can lead to extraordinary control over one's actions, even in challenging conditions.
• 🎯 Mind Always Seeks Pleasure: Swamiji points out that the mind is naturally inclined towards pleasure, and the pursuit of happiness is a fundamental need that can be harnessed for mind control.
• 🌱 Cultivate Positive Thoughts: To control the mind, one must fill it with powerful thoughts that motivate continuous positive actions, countering any negative or weak thoughts.
• ⚖️ Balance is Key: Swamiji advises against extremes in thought or action, suggesting that a balanced approach leads to a calm and contented mind.
• 🚫 Overcoming Negative Emotions: Guilt and complaining are identified as emotions that weaken the mind. Swamiji encourages immediate removal of such thoughts to strengthen the mind.
• 🔄 The Role of Imagination: Swamiji highlights the importance of using imagination constructively to visualize goals being achieved and to maintain a calm mental state.
• 🌟 The Importance of Practice: Mind control is not just theoretical; it requires consistent practice and application of the principles learned to achieve mastery.
• 🛠️ Three Essential Tools: Swamiji mentions three tools for achieving any goal—practice, detachment, and devotion—which are crucial for effective mind control.

Q & A

What is the story Swami Vivekananda shared about controlling the mind during his 1893 Chicago journey?

Swami Vivekananda observed young men trying to shoot at eggshells floating on water with an air gun. Despite the water's movement, he successfully hit the targets 12 times, demonstrating the power of mind control.

What is the first principle of mind control according to Swami Vivekananda?

The first principle is that the mind always seeks pleasure. One should not shy away from happiness, as it is a basic need of the mind.

How can one find happiness according to Swami Vivekananda's teachings?

Happiness can be found where the mind is calm. When the mind is at peace, one starts to feel good and experience happiness.

What does Swami Vivekananda mean by 'Mind Control'?

Mind Control, as explained by Swami Vivekananda, is not just about stopping thoughts but achieving mastery over the mind, making it strong enough to generate powerful thoughts that lead to powerful actions.

What are the two main emotions that weaken the mind according to the transcript?

The two main emotions that weaken the mind are guilt and the habit of complaining.

How can one overcome negative thoughts and guilt according to Swami Vivekananda?

Swami Vivekananda suggests that one should immediately remove guilt and complaints from the mind and instead focus on the strength in weakness and the ease in difficulty.

What role does imagination play in mind control as per the script?

Imagination, if misused, can lead to unnecessary worries and troubles. Swami Vivekananda advises using this faculty constructively to visualize goals being achieved and the mind being calm.

What is the fifth principle of mind control mentioned in the script?

The fifth principle is that a calm mind is always happy. One should keep the mind content but calm, avoiding extremes in thought and action.

Why is it important to maintain a balance in mind control according to Swami Vivekananda?

Maintaining a balance is crucial because extremes can lead to restlessness, guilt, and a lack of concentration. It is about keeping the mind, body, and senses under control.

What are the three tools that can help achieve any goal according to the script?

The three tools mentioned are practice, detachment, and devotion, which can help achieve any goal when used effectively.

What is the practical tip given for dealing with negative thoughts as per the transcript?

The practical tip is to remind oneself repeatedly of one's strength and positive aspects when attacked by negative thoughts.