Anxiety: Result of a hyperactive mind

Our lives are filled with constant thoughts, ideas, plans, and worries. This mental busyness is frequently mistaken for productivity or even a creative state of mind.

However, it leads to anxiety, sleeplessness, and chemical imbalances in the body. The hyperactivity we have trained our minds into is the root of our restlessness. In our quest to be productive, we have forgotten the importance of resting our minds, which is vital for peace.

WHO IS THIS RACE FOR?

Our minds are rarely fully in the present; they are either stuck in the past or racing towards the future. This division, often unnoticed during the day, becomes intense in moments of quietness. Many find their minds racing the most when they lie down at night, making it difficult to relax. This mental overactivity raises internal tension, causing high blood pressure, a racing heart, and even constant fatigue.

Phrases like “an empty mind is the devil’s workshop” or “something is better than nothing” have reinforced the idea that an idle mind is undesirable or valueless. However, without right understanding, these teachings can drive us to keep our minds perpetually busy. The present reality is that we feel helpless when our minds continue racing despite our desire for quiet, further increasing our restlessness. The key to productivity lies not in constant activity but in finding a balance — one that lets us control our mind’s activity.

TRAIN TO CULTIVATE STILLNESS

To calm the overactive mind, practising conscious rest is the only key. The art of entering a state of pause, allowing both the body and mind to experience stillness is essential. Dedicating even 15-30 minutes every day to remaining physically motionless can bring significant changes. In this practice, choose a comfortable place and begin by allowing your body to be entirely still, completely inert just like a corpse. When the body is still, consciously allow your breathing to get slower.

Within a few days of practice, gradually, as the body and breath become calmer, the mind starts to slow down as well, as they are deeply connected, resulting in lesser internal chatter. This state of calmness provides rest to the mind, enhancing both mental clarity and physical relaxation. Regular practice helps build the skill of shifting between activity and stillness at will, allowing us to reset our minds for peace.

SAY GOODBYE TO ANXIETY

Achieving mastery over this balance between action and stillness brings a unique sense of liberation. Rather than being controlled by an overactive mind, we gain the ability to shift between an active state when needed and a calm, motionless state for rest. This inner freedom is a true path to peace, bringing harmony to both body and mind.

Courtesy: Rajyoga Meditation Centre, Kingston (meditation courses and counselling are offered free of charge). Get in touch via email: bkmeditation.jam@gmail.com or WhatsApp: 876-853-7848. Follow them on Instagram: rajyoga_meditation_jamaica.