When I ask myself this question, the answer I get is to focus on the Pathchakra; however, when I sit down to listen to your talks on YouTube, the thought arises in my mind, “No, I should study right now.” Yet, when I actually sit down to study, after a short while, I find myself watching Reels on my mobile phone. At that moment, the thought of studying completely vanishes from my mind. Then, after a little while, I start feeling guilty again and return to my studies. Brother, this is how it happens every single time. So, please tell me yourself: what should I do? Furthermore, Brother, my mind repeatedly drifts toward impure thoughts; I manage to keep it under control for two or three days, but then it reverts to the same pattern. Please tell me what I ought to do?
But the fight with lower nature has to be met and conquered whether you join a study circle, or the Ashram or study. In fact if you do not study and work then your usefulness for the Divine also will be limited. It is only if you develop yourself fully that you can better serve the Divine in the future.
As to conquering lower tendencies, it takes time. One has to first learn to divert the mind from these thoughts by staying busy, learning new things, playing games, avoiding boredom. The will has to exert and keep exerting again and again refusing to concede to impulses. At least one should apply sanyama, the principle of moderation before the conquest. It is a long process and needs time and Grace.
In any case there is no contradiction between studying your regular subjects and going to the study circle. Study circle helps your spiritual progress whereas regular studies, sports etc help the instrumental nature to become equipped for the Divine Work which is an indispensable element in the Integral Yoga.
Affectionately,
Alok Da
