Relax and Drop All That Is Unnatural in You: Modern Day Relevance and Insights from Hindu Philosophy
The ancient Hindu saying, "Relax and drop all that is unnatural in you," offers profound wisdom that remains highly relevant in modern times. This saying encourages individuals to return to their true nature, shedding the layers of conditioning, ego, and external influences that cause stress, anxiety, and imbalance. Let’s delve deeper into its meaning, its roots in Hindu scriptures, its relevance today, and explore various stories, quotes, and concepts that illuminate this teaching.
1. Understanding the Saying:
At its core, the saying urges a return to one’s authentic self. In Hindu philosophy, the idea of "being natural" aligns with the concept of Svadharma, which means one's own duty or nature. Hinduism teaches that each person has a unique role and nature that aligns with the cosmic order (Dharma). The "unnatural" aspects refer to the accumulation of societal conditioning, attachments, desires, fears, and ego that obscure one's true self.
2. Insights from Hindu Scriptures:
Several Hindu texts emphasize the importance of living authentically and in accordance with one's true nature.
Bhagavad Gita: In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna advises Arjuna to perform his duty (Svadharma) without attachment and without being influenced by external pressures. Krishna says, “It is better to live your own destiny imperfectly than to live an imitation of somebody else’s life with perfection” (Bhagavad Gita, 3.35). This suggests that one must embrace their own path and inherent nature rather than succumbing to external expectations or desires.
Upanishads: The Upanishads, which are foundational texts in Hindu philosophy, often speak of the concept of Atman (the inner self or soul) and Maya (illusion or the unreal). According to the Upanishads, to realize one’s true nature, one must see beyond the Maya and understand the Atman. This realization is akin to "dropping all that is unnatural" — recognizing and removing the layers of illusion that cloud our true essence.
Yoga Sutras of Patanjali: The Yoga Sutras teach about the practice of Vairagya (detachment) and Abhyasa (consistent practice) to achieve Chitta Vritti Nirodha (cessation of the fluctuations of the mind). When the mind is free from distractions and disturbances, one is closer to their natural state. Patanjali emphasizes letting go of attachments and aversions, which are considered unnatural states of being.
3. Modern-Day Relevance:
In today's fast-paced world, where individuals are often pressured to conform to societal norms and expectations, this ancient teaching is especially pertinent. The pursuit of success, material wealth, and social validation can lead to stress, anxiety, and a disconnection from one’s true self. By relaxing and dropping what is unnatural, individuals can:
Reduce Stress and Anxiety: Letting go of unnatural expectations and pressures can lead to a significant reduction in mental and emotional stress.
Enhance Authenticity and Self-Acceptance: Embracing one’s true self fosters a sense of authenticity, which is crucial for personal fulfillment and well-being.
Improve Mental Health: By focusing on what is natural and true to oneself, individuals may experience improved mental health and clarity, reducing the prevalence of depression and anxiety disorders.
Promote Inner Peace: Letting go of attachments and aversions brings about a state of inner peace, which is a core goal of many spiritual practices.
4. Stories Illustrating the Concept:
Story of Sage Valmiki: Sage Valmiki, who authored the Ramayana, was originally a highway robber named Ratnakara. His transformation began when he encountered Narada, a celestial sage, who questioned the purpose of his actions and encouraged him to reflect on his true self. Valmiki meditated and chanted the name "Rama," eventually shedding his past identity and realizing his true nature. This story exemplifies the idea of letting go of what is unnatural to discover one's true purpose.
The Parable of the Two Birds in the Mundaka Upanishad: The Mundaka Upanishad describes two birds sitting on the same tree: one bird eats the fruits (representing the individual soul experiencing the fruits of actions) while the other simply watches (representing the Supreme Soul or true self). The bird that eats is restless and agitated, symbolizing a person caught up in worldly activities and desires. The watching bird is calm and serene, symbolizing the state of being when one drops all unnatural inclinations and realizes their higher self.
5. Quotes from Hindu Scriptures:
Bhagavad Gita, 2.47: "You have the right to perform your duty, but not to the fruits of your actions." This quote encourages focusing on actions aligned with one’s nature without attachment to the outcomes, which is a form of dropping unnatural desires.
Chandogya Upanishad, 6.10.3: "Tat Tvam Asi" (Thou art That) – This famous Mahavakya (great saying) from the Chandogya Upanishad speaks to the essential oneness of the individual soul with the ultimate reality (Brahman). It encourages realizing this fundamental truth, which involves dropping all illusions and unnatural identifications.
6. The Importance of This Teaching in Personal Growth:
Self-Realization: This teaching is foundational for self-realization, a core goal in Hindu philosophy. Realizing the self requires peeling back layers of conditioning and ego, a process often facilitated by meditation, self-inquiry, and spiritual practice.
Freedom from Ego: Hindu texts often discuss the importance of overcoming the ego (Ahamkara) — the false identification with the body, mind, and individual achievements. By dropping these unnatural identifiers, one attains a state of humility, peace, and true understanding.
Harmony with Nature: Aligning with one’s true nature also means living in harmony with the external world and its natural laws. This has environmental implications in today’s context, suggesting sustainable living and a respect for the natural order.
7. Lesser-Known Information and Concepts:
Concept of Prakriti and Vikriti: In Ayurveda, Prakriti refers to one's natural constitution, while Vikriti refers to an imbalanced state caused by external influences. Restoring balance involves returning to Prakriti, which aligns with the idea of dropping what is unnatural to return to one’s true self.
Tapas (Austerity): In Hinduism, Tapas refers to spiritual practices aimed at self-discipline and purification. It involves letting go of comforts and attachments, which can be seen as dropping the unnatural desires that bind one to material existence.
The Role of Guru: The spiritual teacher, or Guru, in Hinduism is often seen as a guide who helps the disciple recognize and let go of the unnatural aspects (ignorance and ego) that obscure the true self.
The ancient Hindu saying, "Relax and drop all that is unnatural in you," continues to offer profound guidance in the modern world. By encouraging a return to authenticity, this wisdom helps individuals navigate the complexities of contemporary life with greater clarity, peace, and purpose. Rooted in timeless teachings, stories, and practices from Hindu scriptures, this principle remains a beacon for those seeking to live a life of true fulfillment and harmony.