--> Skip to main content


How To Overcome Low-Self Esteem From Childhood – Hinduism Solutions And Practical Approaches

Overcoming low self-esteem rooted in childhood is a challenging yet transformative journey. In Hinduism, the spiritual and philosophical framework offers a multitude of solutions to address and heal these deep emotional wounds. These solutions include a combination of mantras, scriptural wisdom, devotion, and practical approaches. Below is a comprehensive guide, drawing on Hindu teachings, to help overcome low self-esteem.

1. Spiritual Perspective on Self-Esteem in Hinduism

In Hindu philosophy, the concept of the Atman (the soul) reminds us that we are divine and part of the eternal cosmic consciousness, Brahman. Self-esteem issues are often the result of identifying too strongly with the ego and material body, which are temporary and imperfect. The Bhagavad Gita teaches that recognizing our divine nature and realizing that the soul is beyond the body, beyond all external validation, is key to overcoming self-limiting thoughts.

Key Verse from the Bhagavad Gita: "The soul is never born, nor does it die. It has not come into being, does not come into being, and will not come into being. It is unborn, eternal, ever-existing, and primeval. It is not slain when the body is slain." (Bhagavad Gita 2:20)

Understanding this eternal truth helps us view ourselves beyond childhood experiences and societal pressures.

2. Mantras to Overcome Low Self-Esteem

The use of mantras in daily spiritual practice helps purify the mind and elevate the consciousness. Here are some mantras associated with different deities known for their strength, wisdom, and protection:

Mantra of Goddess Saraswati – For Knowledge and Self-Confidence

Saraswati is the goddess of wisdom, knowledge, and the arts. Chanting her mantra promotes clarity, creativity, and self-expression—qualities that boost self-esteem.

Saraswati Mantra: "Om Aim Saraswati Namaha" (ओम् ऐं सरस्वत्यै नमः)

Meaning: I bow to Goddess Saraswati, the embodiment of wisdom.

Practical Use: Chant this mantra 108 times in the morning, ideally before starting any intellectual work or study, to invoke inner wisdom and self-assurance.

Mantra of Lord Hanuman – For Courage and Strength

Lord Hanuman is revered for his courage, loyalty, and devotion. He represents mental strength and confidence.

Hanuman Mantra: "Om Hanumate Namah" (ओम् हनुमते नमः)

Meaning: I bow to Lord Hanuman, who embodies selfless service and strength.

Practical Use: Chant this mantra daily, particularly during times of anxiety or when facing challenges. It helps in dispelling fear and instills confidence.

Mantra of Lord Shiva – For Inner Peace and Transformation

Shiva is the destroyer of ignorance and ego, and meditating on him helps dissolve negative patterns and emotional blockages.

Shiva Mantra: "Om Namah Shivaya" (ओम् नमः शिवाय)

Meaning: I bow to Lord Shiva, the auspicious one.

Practical Use: Chant this mantra while meditating to experience inner calm and confidence, especially when plagued by self-doubt.

Mantra of Goddess Durga – For Protection and Empowerment

Goddess Durga symbolizes the power to overcome obstacles and negativity. She gives strength to rise above one’s limitations and fears.

Durga Mantra: "Om Dum Durgaye Namaha" (ओम् दुं दुर्गायै नमः)

Meaning: I bow to Goddess Durga, who protects us from all harm and suffering.

Practical Use: Chant this mantra during difficult situations or when you feel overwhelmed. It empowers you to confront your inner fears and emerge victorious.

Mantra of Lord Krishna – For Self-Love and Joy

Krishna’s teachings emphasize divine love and living in joy. He encourages us to love ourselves as manifestations of the divine.

Krishna Mantra: "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya" (ओम् नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय)

Meaning: I bow to Lord Krishna, the all-pervading one.

Practical Use: Use this mantra to invoke a sense of joy and connection to divine love. This mantra is great for those who struggle with self-worth, as Krishna reminds us of our inherent beauty and divinity.

3. Practical Day-to-Day Solutions

Incorporating spiritual practices with self-reflection and action can enhance one’s journey of overcoming low self-esteem. Here are some practical steps based on Hindu principles:

Daily Meditation

  • Practice mindfulness meditation, focusing on your breath and repeating a mantra like “Om Namah Shivaya” to help center your mind and calm anxiety.
  • Meditate on the idea of the Atman, recognizing your divine nature beyond the mind and body.

Seva (Selfless Service)

  • Engage in seva or selfless service to others. Helping those in need shifts the focus away from self-doubt and cultivates compassion, which boosts inner confidence.
  • Volunteering at temples or community centers can bring a sense of fulfillment and purpose.

Practice Detachment (Vairagya)

  • One of the teachings from the Bhagavad Gita is the practice of detachment from outcomes. Krishna advises to perform your duties without attachment to the results.
  • Practice focusing on effort, not external validation. Understand that self-worth is independent of external success or failure.

Affirmations Inspired by the Vedas

  • Regularly affirm your divine nature with phrases like: "I am a reflection of the infinite Brahman," "I am strong, capable, and complete."
  • Writing down such affirmations or repeating them throughout the day helps reprogram your subconscious mind.

4. Stories from Hindu Scriptures

Stories of various deities and devotees in Hindu scriptures provide profound inspiration:

Hanuman's Realization of Power

  • Hanuman, though immensely powerful, had forgotten his strength until reminded by Jambavan during the search for Sita. Once he remembered his capabilities, he leapt across the ocean to reach Lanka.
  • This story symbolizes that we often forget our own strengths due to self-doubt. Like Hanuman, with proper guidance and self-awareness, we can unlock our inner potential.

Durga’s Victory over Mahishasura

  • The story of Goddess Durga slaying the demon Mahishasura is a reminder of inner strength. Mahishasura represents the inner demons of fear, doubt, and ego, while Durga is the divine force within us capable of defeating these negative tendencies.
  • This tale inspires confidence and the belief that we have the strength to overcome any challenge within ourselves.

5. Ideal Deities to Worship

Based on different challenges, specific deities are ideal for devotion:

  • Lord Hanuman: For courage, strength, and removal of fear.
  • Goddess Durga: For protection from negative energies and empowerment.
  • Lord Shiva: For transformation and peace of mind.
  • Goddess Saraswati: For wisdom and the ability to express oneself confidently.
  • Lord Krishna: For self-love, joy, and understanding of divine play (lila).
  • Lord Ganesha: For overcoming obstacles, both external and internal.

6. Quotes from Hindu Scriptures

  • Bhagavad Gita 18:63: "Thus, I have explained to you this knowledge that is more secret than all secrets. Reflect on it fully, and do what you wish to do."
    • This encourages self-reflection and decision-making based on inner wisdom.
  • Chandogya Upanishad 6.8.7: “Tat Tvam Asi” (You are That)
    • This famous teaching reminds us that our true nature is one with the divine, which instills profound self-worth.

7. Importance of Devotion (Bhakti)

Devotion, or Bhakti, is a powerful path to overcome feelings of inadequacy. By surrendering to the divine and focusing on love and devotion to a deity, one can gradually dissolve feelings of low self-esteem. The act of prayer, chanting, and offering rituals fosters a deep connection to the higher self and divine grace.


By integrating mantras, spiritual wisdom, and daily practices, along with a devotion to the appropriate deity, individuals can overcome childhood traumas and cultivate a deep sense of inner strength and self-worth. Hinduism offers a holistic approach that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit, providing the tools necessary for lasting transformation.