Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 11.20.19
Mukti· LiberationCarefully Bring the Wandering Mind Back
“Whenever the mind, being concentrated on the spiritual platform, is suddenly deviated from its spiritual position, one should carefully bring it under the control of the self by following the prescribed means.”
What the purport teaches
- Even during serious practice of Kṛṣṇa consciousness, the flickering mind may suddenly wander. One should carefully bring it back under the control of the self.
- Neither excessive austerity nor excessive sense enjoyment helps control the mind. Limited satisfaction, such as a reasonable amount of mahā-prasādam or occasional recreation with transcendentalists, may help, but excess causes setbacks.
- When the mind seeks sinful gratification, one must tolerate its foolish demands and firmly continue Kṛṣṇa consciousness. The waves of illusion will subside, allowing spiritual advancement to resume.
Try this today
During today's devotional practice, notice one distraction and carefully return your attention to Kṛṣṇa consciousness.
Ask yourself
When my mind wanders, do I respond with careful effort or simply follow it?
Carry the question through the day, then answer it in your own words before sleep.
From Canto 10, chapter 14 onward, the translation and purports were completed by Śrīla Prabhupāda's disciples after his departure, and published by the Bhaktivedanta Book Trust.