The Bhagavad Gita, the 700-verse Hindu scripture that forms part of the epic Mahabharata, offers profound insights into the nature of the mind and the constant chatter we experience. Written thousands of years ago, its wisdom remains remarkably relevant to our modern struggles with mental noise and self-doubt.
In Chapter 6, Verse 34, Arjuna describes the challenge we all face:
This ancient observation perfectly captures our modern experience of incessant mental chatter. The Gita recognizes that the untrained mind naturally wanders, creating stories, worries, and distractions that pull us away from present-moment awareness.
The Bhagavad Gita distinguishes between different types of inner voices:
Krishna teaches Arjuna that true wisdom comes from learning to discern these different voices and aligning with our buddhi - the voice of wisdom and clarity.
The Gita recommends a two-fold approach: consistent practice of mindfulness (abhyasa) combined with non-attachment to results (vairagya). This means regularly observing your thoughts without getting caught up in them.
Chapter 6 describes meditation techniques involving focusing the mind on a single point. When thoughts wander (as they inevitably will), gently bring your attention back without judgment.
The Gita teaches the practice of "sakshi bhava" - becoming the witness of your thoughts rather than identifying with them. This creates space between you and your mental chatter.
By performing actions with full attention and without attachment to outcomes, we train the mind to stay present rather than getting lost in future worries or past regrets.
Chapter 2 of the Gita describes the "stithaprajna" - a person of steady wisdom whose mind remains undisturbed by the constant flow of thoughts:
This state isn't about eliminating thoughts, but rather developing the capacity to observe them without being controlled by them.
Here are practical ways to implement these teachings:
The Bhagavad Gita reminds us that quieting the mind is a gradual process requiring patience and persistence. As Krishna advises Arjuna: "Little by little, through patience and repeated effort, the mind will become still in the Self."
By applying these timeless techniques, we can transform our relationship with the voice in our head - not through suppression, but through understanding, awareness, and ultimately, transcendence.