Habits And Actions – In Gita Verse 17.7 Even the food each person prefers is of three kinds, according to the three modes of material nature. The same is true of sacrifices, austerities and charity. Now hear of the distinctions between them.
Drawing from the wisdom of Bhagavad Gita Verse 17.7, Krishna’s eternal guidance reverberates as a poignant testament to the interwoven relationship between our minds, bodies, and souls. These teachings emphasise that our food choices extend beyond nourishing our physical bodies, influencing our mental and spiritual well-being. As we explore our culinary inclinations, we embark on a profound quest of self-exploration, unravelling the layers of our intrinsic Gunas or Modes, illuminating the essence of our innermost nature.
Embarking on the path of mindfulness begins with attentiveness towards our physical being. With each passing moment, we cultivate a heightened sensitivity to every gesture, every movement of our body. As this awareness deepens, a remarkable transformation unfolds: habits and actions that once seemed integral to our being gradually fade away. Our bodies respond by relaxing, becoming finely attuned to the present moment, drawing us into a state of tranquil harmony. A profound sense of peace envelops us, resonating within like a subtle melody that reverberates through every fibre of our being, creating a symphony of tranquillity and inner balance.
By observing the dynamic relationship between our physical bodies and mental state, we gain profound insights into how the food we consume reflects our essence and influences our overall well-being. Rather than advocating drastic alterations, Krishna urges us to embrace meditation, fostering a heightened awareness of our bodily needs and the subtle signals it communicates. This inward journey leads us to nurture the connection between body and mind, fostering a harmonious equilibrium. When approached with mindfulness, the simple act of eating transcends into a sacred ritual of prayer or meditation. Through a conscious and profound presence during meals, each morsel becomes an avenue for gratitude and mindfulness, elevating the act of dining into a spiritual experience.
The human mind is naturally inclined towards extremes as they offer a sense of momentum and intensity. However, dwelling in the middle path serves as a gateway to serenity and equilibrium, likened to the graceful oscillation of a pendulum. By refraining from drastic swings between opposite ends of the spectrum, we shield ourselves from accumulating disruptive energies that breed chaos and unrest.
Upon contemplation of the magnetic pull towards extremes, we come to understand the mind’s attraction to the thrill of polarities. Embracing a state of equilibrium and resisting the tempting lure of drastic shifts allows for the cultivation of inner calmness and the mitigation of negative forces that threaten to disrupt our peace.
When faced with intense emotions like anger or regret, the wisdom lies in navigating towards a balanced approach. Rather than succumbing to the volatile sway between extremes, the key is to anchor oneself in the centre, acknowledging and embracing these emotions without harsh self-judgement. By fostering self-compassion and striving for a state of equanimity, we embark on a transformative journey towards spiritual harmony and self-realisation. The crux lies in self-awareness, for while others may observe our outward behaviour, only through self-awareness can we watch our inner polarity without resistance. By keenly watching and accepting our internal fluctuations, we unveil the path to residing in the middle ground, where balance, stillness, and harmony converge.
Krishna’s teachings highlight the importance of honouring our bodies through conscious food choices. By embracing mindful eating habits such as savouring each morsel and consuming food only when hungry, we establish a deep connection with our inner selves. Let us embrace these enduring lessons, nurturing a sense of balance within ourselves and authentically harmonising body, mind, and spirit.
Tags: Habits And Actions
