Rise Above the Two Moods

Rise Above the Two Moods

by Swami Sivananda

In vedanta there are only two kinds of moods – joy, exultation or exhilaration and grief or depression. Now there is joy and five minutes later there is depression – the currents alternate. They belong to the sad Urmis (six waves, i.e. grief, delusion, hunger, thirst, decay and death). People of gloomy moods attract gloomy thoughts from others and from the akasic (etheric) records in the psychic ether. Persons with hope, cheerfulness and confidence attract similar thoughts from others – they are always successful in their attempts. People with negative moods of depression, anger and hatred do positive harm to others – and great damage in the thought world.

Try to eradicate depression through prayer, meditation, counter-thoughts of joy, chanting Om, self-enquiry and singing divine songs. There are various causes for depression – cloudy day, associating with evil persons, indigestion, influence of astral spirits and revival of old impressions of depression. When you get into a talking mood – practise mouna (silence) at once. When you are in a mood of hatred, develop the opposite virtue, love, and the mood will pass quickly. When you feel selfishness arise, do selfless work. When you are in the mood of separateness, mix with others – through service, love, kindness and forgiveness. If you feel lazy, do some active work.

A liberated being is free from all moods – he has become their master. In atman (self) there are no moods, there is only pure consciousness. Identify with Atman and you will easily destroy all moods. However, there is one good mood – the meditative mood. When this manifests, immediately give up reading, writing, talking etc., and begin to meditate. Watch for this kind of mood – when meditation comes by itself, without effort.

Laugh and smile. How can a mind that is dull and gloomy think of God? Try to be happy always. Happiness is your very nature. The spirit of cheerfulness must be cultivated by all aspirants.

With the growth of the mind, the pains will increase. But with its extinction there will be great bliss. Having mastery over the mind, free yourself from the world of perceptions in order that you may be of the nature of jnana or wisdom. Though surrounded by pleasurable or painful objects which disturb the equilibrium of your mind, remain rock-like, and receive all things with equanimity.

Why Rise Above the Two Moods Is Essential for Inner Peace

Life is filled with moments of happiness and disappointment, success and failure, comfort and difficulty. Learning to Rise Above the Two Moods helps people maintain emotional balance regardless of external circumstances. Instead of allowing emotions to control every decision, a calm and thoughtful approach creates greater stability in everyday life. Many spiritual teachings encourage people to remain steady in both pleasant and unpleasant situations because true peace comes from within. Devotional India shares inspiring wisdom that reminds readers to develop inner strength through self-awareness, patience, and faith rather than depending entirely on changing situations.

Every individual experiences emotional highs and lows, but choosing to Rise Above the Two Moods makes it easier to respond wisely instead of reacting impulsively. When people become too attached to temporary emotions, they often lose clarity and make decisions they later regret. Practicing self-control helps develop confidence and resilience, allowing challenges to become opportunities for growth. Through regular reflection and positive thinking, individuals gradually build the ability to remain peaceful even during uncertain times. Devotional India encourages seekers to cultivate this balanced outlook as part of a meaningful spiritual journey.

Personal growth becomes more rewarding when people Rise Above the Two Moods rather than allowing temporary feelings to define their lives. Every challenge carries an important lesson, while every success offers an opportunity to remain humble. Those who maintain emotional balance are better prepared to face obstacles without fear or discouragement. They understand that both joy and sorrow are temporary experiences that contribute to personal development. This perspective builds maturity and helps people move forward with confidence, regardless of changing circumstances.

Relationships also become stronger when individuals Rise Above the Two Moods during disagreements or misunderstandings. Emotional reactions often create unnecessary conflicts, whereas patience and understanding strengthen trust. Listening carefully, speaking kindly, and respecting different opinions create harmony within families, friendships, and workplaces. Instead of allowing anger or disappointment to damage relationships, emotional balance encourages thoughtful communication and mutual respect. Devotional India highlights the importance of compassion and forgiveness as essential qualities for building lasting relationships.

Professional success depends not only on knowledge and skills but also on the ability to Rise Above the Two Moods in challenging situations. Every workplace presents deadlines, unexpected changes, and occasional setbacks. People who remain calm under pressure are more likely to solve problems effectively and make better decisions. They inspire confidence among colleagues and demonstrate leadership through patience and consistency. Maintaining emotional stability also improves productivity and helps individuals stay focused on long-term goals instead of temporary frustrations.

Developing the habit to Rise Above the Two Moods requires regular practice and self-discipline. Meditation, prayer, mindful breathing, and thoughtful reflection help create inner calm while reducing emotional stress. Reading uplifting literature and spending time with positive influences also strengthen emotional resilience. By practicing gratitude and accepting life’s changing nature, individuals become less affected by temporary successes or disappointments. Devotional India inspires readers to include these simple practices in their daily routine to nurture peace and wisdom.

Spiritual traditions teach that the ability to Rise Above the Two Moods leads to lasting happiness because true contentment comes from within rather than external achievements. A balanced mind remains steady whether circumstances are favorable or difficult. This inner stability supports wise decision-making, compassionate behavior, and a deeper understanding of life’s purpose. People who develop this quality naturally inspire others through their calm presence and positive attitude, creating harmony wherever they go.

In conclusion, Rise Above the Two Moods is a valuable principle for achieving emotional balance, stronger relationships, professional success, and spiritual growth. By remaining steady through life’s changing experiences, individuals discover greater confidence, wisdom, and inner peace. Practicing patience, self-control, and gratitude every day creates lasting strength that cannot be shaken by temporary circumstances. Devotional India continues to encourage readers to embrace timeless values that lead to a peaceful, purposeful, and fulfilling life.