Ultimate friendshipis with oneself

It is believed that speaking with a close friend and opening your heart is important, especially when you are at your lowest ebb. “Sharing happiness multiplies joy, and sharing your pain lessens the burden on your heart” is an adage that is used often. But did you know that quiet introspection of your joys or pains is more important than speaking about them to a friend? The only missing link is – we don’t know what “self-communication” is and how we can do that.

Let’s take the analogy of your mind as your friend who is in pain and you as the other friend lending an ear to the narrative. Now apply the same process with your mind. Detach yourself from the emotional state of mind and listen. Ask about all the fears, roots of emotions, insecurities, hurts. Let the mind address all the highs and lows. This is the most critical part of any communication – ‘to listen’. After listening to the story, counsel your mind just as you counsel your close friend. Show your mind the path to the positives, opportunities, lessons, boundaries, and strengths.

Remember its strengths and allow your mind to release the older grip. Reassure your mind whenever you see that it is slipping away. That is how you heal your mind much quicker and independently than talking to someone else. Remember you are closer to yourself than even your best friend or partner. Rebuild that friendship with your inner self again.

Courtesy: Rajyoga Meditation Center, Kingston (courses are given free of charge). Email: kingston@jm.brahmakumaris.org