THE MIND: ITS MYSTERIES AND CONTROL - 2. MIND AND BODY - Sri Swami Sivananda - Complete Works with FULL English Translation of all Sanskrit Words.

Body: The Mould for Mind’s Enjoyment
In this chapter, Swami Sivananda delves into the intricate connection between the mind and the body, emphasizing their interdependence. He posits that the body is not separate from the mind but its outward manifestation. The physical body serves as a vessel for the mind's expressions, enjoyment, and experiences. It is crafted and shaped by the mind’s thoughts, desires, and tendencies. The mind, when engrossed in the body, becomes bound by it, leading to suffering. This interplay highlights that the mind and body are not independent entities; rather, they function as a unified whole. The analogy of a garden dependent on water illustrates this point—just as a garden cannot thrive without water, the body cannot function without the influence of the mind. Sivananda introduces the concept of the Subtle Body (Sukshma Sharira), which operates beyond the gross physical body. The mind, through its desires and impressions, creates and inhabits different bodies over lifetimes, seeking fulfillment and growth. Thus, the physical body acts as a mould shaped by the mind for its journey of experiences in the material world. 

Thoughts Make the Body
Swami Sivananda explains that thoughts are the real drivers of action, far more potent than physical actions. The body is merely the projection of the mind's thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. Every thought creates vibrations in the mental plane, which, in turn, influence the physical body. The habitual repetition of thoughts leads to patterns and habits that shape the body and its functions. Sivananda emphasizes the profound impact of thought on the body's health. Thoughts generate electrical and chemical changes in the brain's nervous cells, influencing every part of the body. For example, a focused mind can even fix the gaze, showing the direct influence of thoughts on physical expressions. 

Face: An Index of the Mind
The physical body, particularly the face, serves as a mirror reflecting the mind’s state. Swami Sivananda poetically describes the face as an "advertisement board" where the mind's contents are displayed. He asserts that emotions such as fear, anger, grief, or joy leave unmistakable imprints on the face. The eyes, often called the "windows to the soul," transmit the mind's messages—be it treachery, love, or compassion. An observant person can discern the dominant thoughts and emotions of another through facial expressions, body language, and speech. The chapter underlines that the attempt to hide one’s inner thoughts is futile; the mind’s state inevitably manifests outwardly. 

Mutual Influence Between Mind and Body
Sivananda delves into the dynamic interplay between the mind and body, explaining that each profoundly influences the other. A pure, healthy mind fosters a healthy body, while negative emotions such as grief or anger can weaken it. Conversely, a healthy body can bolster the mind's vitality, while physical ailments can impair mental well-being. This mutual influence underscores the importance of maintaining mental purity and discipline. Sivananda highlights that by cultivating positive thoughts, one can promote harmony and health in both mind and body. 

Bad Thoughts: The Primary Cause of Disease
The chapter identifies negative thoughts as the root cause of many physical ailments. Emotions such as hatred, jealousy, and anxiety disrupt the body’s natural harmony, leading to diseases of the heart, liver, and other vital organs. Anger and stress, in particular, release harmful chemicals into the bloodstream, impairing digestion and depleting vitality. Sivananda stresses that diseases begin in the mind as "primary diseases," which later manifest as "secondary diseases" in the body. By eliminating negative thoughts and cultivating purity of mind, one can prevent and heal physical illnesses. 

A Lamentable Practice
Swami Sivananda critiques the modern medical profession, particularly its tendency to instill fear in patients. He argues that doctors often exaggerate the severity of diseases for financial gain, inadvertently worsening their patients' conditions through negative suggestions. The chapter underscores the power of suggestion, cautioning against its misuse and advocating for a more compassionate and truthful approach to healing. 

The Root of All Evils
According to Sivananda, the erroneous identification with the body is the source of all suffering. This attachment leads to pride, possessiveness, and pain. He contrasts the detachment one feels towards strangers with the deep sorrow experienced when a loved one dies, illustrating how attachment amplifies suffering. The chapter calls for breaking free from this false identification by recognizing that the self is not the body but the eternal Atman (soul). 

Pain Is in the Mind Only
Swami Sivananda offers profound insights into the nature of pain, asserting that it exists only in the mind. In states of deep sleep or under anesthesia, pain ceases to exist because the mind is disconnected from the body. Even during waking states, distractions such as joy can momentarily eclipse physical pain. By training the mind to withdraw from the diseased part of the body and focusing on higher ideals, such as God or spiritual practices, one can transcend physical suffering. Strong willpower and endurance further diminish the mind’s perception of pain. 

Conquer the Mind to Control the Body
The chapter concludes with a call to mastery over the mind. For most people, the mind is under the sway of the body, leading to an existence driven by physical needs and desires. Sivananda urges individuals to develop their intellect and practice meditation to reverse this dynamic. By controlling the mind, one gains mastery over the body, transforming it into a faithful servant. This control is achieved through constant practice, study of spiritual texts, and unwavering focus on the Supreme. 

Key Takeaways

1. Unity of Mind and Body: The body is a reflection of the mind, shaped by its thoughts and desires. Maintaining a healthy mind is essential for a healthy body.
2. Power of Thought: Thoughts directly influence the body’s health and vitality. Positive thinking promotes well-being, while negative emotions lead to disease.
3. Face as a Mirror: The face and body language are outward indicators of the mind's state. Emotions and thoughts leave visible imprints.
4. Mind Over Pain: Pain is a mental construct that can be transcended through concentration, willpower, and detachment.
5. Mental Purity: Eliminating negative thoughts and cultivating noble emotions is key to physical and mental health.
6. Self-Mastery: True control over life begins with mastery of the mind, which in turn governs the body.

Swami Sivananda’s teachings in this chapter serve as a profound guide for those seeking harmony between mind and body. Through disciplined thought and spiritual practices, one can transcend physical limitations and achieve inner peace.

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