Why do negative thoughts come to mind even during prayer or meditation? Why does the mind wander when we try to focus on spirituality? These are questions that trouble many spiritual seekers. Revered spiritual master Premanand Ji Maharaj beautifully explained the root cause of this problem and offered a profound yet practical way to overcome it.
Why Do Negative Thoughts Come to Mind?
Premanand Ji Maharaj explains that the mind has a natural attraction to worldly pleasures. It’s not the fault of the mind itself — it simply follows the direction we have trained it to follow. For years, we have allowed our minds to indulge in worldly distractions, desires, and sensory experiences.
So, when we suddenly try to lead it toward spirituality — meditation, prayer, or devotion — it resists. The mind, which once roamed freely among sensory enjoyments, feels restless when we attempt to control it. This restlessness manifests as negative thoughts and distractions.
The Nature of the Mind
According to Maharaj, the mind has been conditioned by the five senses — sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch. For most of our lives, the mind has been our master, and we have obeyed its every command.
Now, when we begin spiritual practice and try to discipline the mind, it naturally rebels. The mind doesn’t like losing control. It will repeatedly try to tempt or disturb us by creating distractions or negative thoughts.
How to Control Negative Thoughts
Premanand Ji Maharaj gives a simple yet powerful analogy.
“If the mind says, ‘I want to see,’ and you say, ‘Don’t look,’ it will insist a hundred times. But if you say, ‘Look here,’ it will eventually start obeying you.”
This means that you have the power to guide your mind. At first, the mind will resist and try to dominate you. But if you stay firm and consistent, it will slowly learn to follow your direction.
When negative thoughts arise, don’t fight them or get disturbed. Simply observe them and redirect your attention toward something higher — prayer, chanting, or remembrance of God. Over time, the mind becomes purified and calm.
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The Struggle Between the Mind and the Self
Maharaj explains that in the beginning, the mind will “test” your patience. It may create frustration or anger when you try to control it. If you can remain calm and endure this phase without reacting, you have conquered your mind.
But if you give in to the irritation or follow your thoughts impulsively, the mind conquers you. This struggle is the essence of spiritual discipline — to transform from being controlled by the mind to becoming its master.
Become the Guru of Your Mind
Premanand Ji Maharaj says:
“If you make your mind your disciple, you become the guru. But if you let the mind control you, you remain a slave.”
Most people in the world today live under the control of their minds. They act according to emotions, desires, and impulses. But those who learn to discipline their minds walk the path of true spiritual mastery.
When you train the mind to listen to you, you gain the ability to live consciously, peacefully, and purposefully. That is when a person becomes a Mahatma — a great soul.
The Path to Freedom from the Mind
Breaking free from the control of the mind is not easy. It requires patience, persistence, and spiritual practice. Meditation, prayer, and chanting divine names help in retraining the mind. Over time, these practices create inner stability and reduce the power of negative thoughts.
Premanand Ji Maharaj reminds us that only a few people truly achieve mastery over their minds — but every sincere effort brings progress. The key is consistency and surrender.
Negative thoughts are not a sign of failure; they are signs of progress — proof that you are becoming aware of your inner world. The mind may wander, but through love, devotion, and discipline, it can be transformed.
As Premanand Ji Maharaj beautifully teaches:
“The mind cannot control you unless you allow it. Once you stop supporting its distractions, it will start supporting your spiritual journey.”
True peace begins when the mind becomes your disciple — and you, its compassionate guru.
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