Overcoming attraction, particularly in the context of lust or destructive attachment, is a theme explored in Hindu philosophy and scriptures. The aim isn't to suppress natural emotions, but to cultivate detachment (Vairagya), self-control (Dama), and mental purity (Shuddhi). Hinduism offers numerous spiritual, psychological, and practical approaches to overcome these challenges, with guidance rooted in scripture, mantras, and divine worship. Here's a comprehensive solution-oriented approach:
1. Understanding the Nature of Attraction
In Hinduism, human attraction, especially physical attraction, is viewed as one of the many maya (illusions) that bind the soul to the cycle of samsara (repeated birth and death). Krishna, in the Bhagavad Gita, teaches that desires rooted in the senses create bondage, which leads to suffering and entrapment in material life.
Bhagavad Gita 2.62-63:
“When a man thinks of objects, attachment for them arises; from attachment, desire is born; from desire, anger arises. From anger comes delusion; from delusion, loss of memory; from loss of memory, the destruction of discrimination; and with the destruction of discrimination, he perishes.”
This sequence shows how attraction can grow into a destructive force if not checked. The teachings suggest that awareness and mental discipline are essential to prevent falling into this trap.
2. Practical Day-to-Day Solutions
- Mindfulness Practice (Dhyana): Regular meditation helps quiet the mind and observe thoughts without attachment. By doing this, you can learn to see attraction as a transient impulse, not something to act on.
- Breathing Techniques (Pranayama): Controlling your breath can help control your mind. Practice alternate nostril breathing (Nadi Shodhana) to bring balance and calmness, and to redirect energy from lower desires to higher spiritual goals.
- Physical Discipline (Brahmacharya): Engage in physical activities such as yoga or brisk walking to channel your energy positively. Brahmacharya means more than just celibacy; it’s about consciously managing sexual energy and turning it into spiritual energy.
3. Mantras for Mental and Emotional Strength
Chanting mantras can help purify the mind, boost willpower, and invoke divine grace for overcoming lust. Here are specific mantras associated with deities known for strength, protection, and transformation:
Hanuman Mantra for Strength and Self-Control:
Hanuman is known for his supreme control over senses and his devotion to Rama. His worship can help transcend desire. "Om Namo Hanumate Rudraya"
Chanting this mantra invokes the strength of Hanuman to overcome physical and emotional challenges.Narasimha Mantra for Protection from Lust:
Narasimha, the fierce avatar of Vishnu, is often invoked for protection from inner and outer demons, including lust. "Om Ugram Viram Mahavishnum Jvalantam Sarvato Mukham
Nrisimham Bhishanam Bhadram Mrityor Mrityum Namamyaham"
This mantra helps in destroying negative emotions like anger, greed, and lust.Krishna Mantra for Detachment and Divine Love:
Krishna’s teachings focus on devotion and love for the divine, transcending worldly desires. "Om Kleem Krishnaya Namah"
Chanting this mantra can help convert worldly attraction into spiritual devotion and love.Kali Mantra for Destroying Desires:
Goddess Kali is a fierce aspect of the divine mother who destroys the ego, attachments, and desires. "Om Kreem Kalikaye Namah"
This mantra invokes Kali’s transformative power to break the shackles of desire.Goddess Bhairavi Mantra for Inner Purity:
Bhairavi is the embodiment of wisdom and destruction of ignorance, including lustful thoughts. "Om Bhairavi Devi Vidmahe Mahakalyai Dhimahi
Tanno Bhairavi Prachodayat"
This mantra purifies the mind and strengthens self-control.Kal Bhairava Mantra for Control of Time and Desires:
Kal Bhairava, the fierce form of Lord Shiva, represents control over time and material attachments. "Om Hreem Bhairavaya Namah"
This mantra assists in overcoming sensual desires and realizing the fleeting nature of attraction.
4. Stories from Hindu Scriptures
Hanuman's Story of Self-Control:
Hanuman represents the perfect example of one who has mastery over his senses. Despite being immensely powerful, he remains detached and devoted to his mission. His unwavering focus on serving Lord Rama makes him an ideal deity to meditate on for controlling desires.Krishna’s Teaching to Arjuna:
Krishna explains to Arjuna the futility of getting attached to the senses in the Bhagavad Gita. Krishna teaches that the mind must be controlled and directed toward higher pursuits, not worldly pleasures.Shiva and Kama Deva:
When Kama (the god of desire) tried to distract Lord Shiva from his meditation, Shiva burned him to ashes with his third eye, symbolizing the transcendence of lust and attachment. This story serves as a reminder of the power of focusing on the divine and burning away lustful desires.
5. Ideal Deities to Worship
- Hanuman: As the embodiment of devotion and strength, Hanuman helps control the mind and senses. Worshipping him cultivates courage and discipline.
- Narasimha: Invoking Narasimha provides protection from internal and external obstacles, including lustful thoughts and tendencies.
- Goddess Kali: Kali is the destroyer of illusions, attachments, and desires. She is worshipped to eliminate lower instincts and awaken spiritual strength.
- Goddess Bhairavi: Bhairavi represents fierce wisdom and is ideal for those seeking transformation and freedom from lust and ignorance.
- Kal Bhairava: His worship helps control time and desire, reminding devotees of the impermanence of worldly attractions.
6. Quotes from Hindu Scriptures
Bhagavad Gita 3.37:
“It is lust only, Arjuna, which is born of contact with the material mode of passion and later transformed into anger, and which is the all-devouring sinful enemy of this world.”Bhagavad Gita 2.70:
“A person who is not disturbed by the incessant flow of desires—that enter like rivers into the ocean, which is ever being filled but is always still—can alone achieve peace, and not the man who strives to satisfy such desires.”
7. Importance of Overcoming Lust in Hinduism
- Spiritual Progress: Lust and uncontrolled attraction are major obstacles to spiritual progress. Overcoming them leads to inner peace, higher awareness, and divine realization.
- Purity of Mind (Chitta Shuddhi): A pure mind is essential for attaining liberation (moksha). Lust clouds the mind and binds one to samsara, making detachment a priority for aspirants on the spiritual path.
- Mental Equanimity: Achieving mental stability and equanimity (samattvam) is crucial in dealing with the highs and lows caused by attraction.
8. Inspiration and Practice
Set a Daily Routine:
- Start the day with a morning mantra chanting (Hanuman or Kali).
- Practice brahmacharya in thoughts and actions, consciously avoiding situations or media that could trigger attraction.
- Reflect on scriptures, like Bhagavad Gita, especially verses related to detachment and self-control.
- Perform acts of service (Seva), as selfless actions redirect energy from personal desires toward uplifting others.
By following these methods, supported by divine grace, discipline, and scriptural wisdom, you can successfully overcome excessive attraction and channel that energy into spiritual growth.