Positive Thinking
Thought is subtle matter. It consists of a powerful energy which, once created, influences not only our own lives but the lives of others too. As Swami Sivananda says, “Thought is the most creative power in the universe.” Our present condition is the result of past thoughts. Our future is being shaped by the thoughts we think now. The quality of our thoughts molds our character and controls our destiny. A positive thought is thrice blessed: it benefits the thinker, the person it is directed towards, and it uplifts the mental atmosphere of the world. A negative thought is thrice cursed: it harms the thinker, its object, and pollutes the collective thought climate.
The constant replay of past memories and anticipation of future events causes distraction and anxiety. Negative thought patterns disturb the harmony of body and mind, weaken vitality, and cause mental and physical illness. Positive thoughts, on the other hand, heal, soothe, and uplift. Cheerfulness and laughter act as tonics; they release endorphins and boost circulation. Just as negative impressions (samskaras) are formed by repeated indulgence in harmful thoughts and actions, positive grooves in the mind can be consciously created through repetition and mindfulness. Thoughts gain strength by repetition. As you think, so you become.
Yoga philosophy teaches the law of karma – action and reaction. This law applies equally to thoughts. A negative thought attracts a negative reaction; a positive thought, a positive one. Most people tend to blame others or outside circumstances for what happens to them, but Yoga insists that we take full responsibility for our own lives. The secret of happiness and suffering lies not outside, but within. The universe brings us only those experiences which correspond to the vibration of our dominant thoughts. We are truly the architects of our own destiny.
Vedanta teaches that the individual Self and the universal Self are one and the same. The world is veiled by Maya, the illusion of separation. When this veil is lifted, through inquiry and meditation, fear, sorrow and even the fear of death disappear. A positive mind grounded in the knowledge of Vedanta is unaffected by outer circumstances. Just as the raindrops slide off a lotus leaf without wetting it, so the realised being remains untouched by the dualities of the world. All is Brahman. The joy and peace we seek outside are already present within.
