I was wondering if you could recommend any special ''technique'' that i could use, to combat and get rid of all kinds of negative thoughts? (including bitter thoughts, angry, unkind etc). I mean when the thought comes into my head, what is the best way to get rid of it, and moreover, how I can stop those thoughts from coming into my head at all? I am trying to purify my thoughts, but it is very difficult.... I would be grateful for any advise or techniques.
Thanx
—Kris, America
Dear Kris,
The first thing to realize is that all thought is universally not individually rooted. So the good news is that you are not your thoughts. One of the most important things you can do is keep good company. I don’t know where you live or what you have available to you regarding satsang, but even if there is not a meditation group in your area, you can join Ananda’s virtual community and take part in many spiritual activities, classes and discussions. Here is the web address; www.ananda.org
You will find it helpful to pay careful attention to the music you listen to, the books you read and the movies you watch. All of these mediums affect your thoughts greatly. Fill your mind with positive things and your thoughts will be uplifted. Read the lives of saints and you will be inspired and instructed.
Affirmations and Chanting are wonderful tools to help you. I strongly recommend that you obtain a copy of Paramhansa Yogananda’s “Scientific Healing Affirmations”. It is the most powerful little book I’ve ever come across. One of my favorite affirmations is the one for Psychological Success. It is very helpful to memorize so I’ve included it here.
I am brave, I am strong.
Perfume of success thought
Blows in me, blows in me.
I am cool, I am calm
I am sweet, I am kind
I am love, I am sympathy
I am charming and magnetic
I am pleased with all
I wipe the tears and fears of all
I have no enemy
Though some think they are so.
I am the friend of all.
I have no habits,
In eating, dressing, behaving
I am free, I am free.
I command Thee, O Attention
To come and practice concentration
On things I do, on works I do.
I can do everything
When so I think, when so I think.[1]
[1] Scientific Healing Affirmations by Swami Yogananda, 1924 Edition
