5 Bhagavad Gita teachings for a happier, more balanced life

The Bhagavad Gita teaches that real happiness comes from within — not from achievements or material pleasures. Here are 5 timeless lessons that help you live with calm, purpose, and compassion.

The Bhagavad Gita contains a wealth of wisdom on how to live life with a sense of indefinite calm and eternal joy. It doesn’t look outward but inward, as that is where the true source of happiness lies. It also explains how one can live blissfully, regardless of external circumstances. Take a look at these five lessons from the Bhagavad Gita for a happier and more balanced life that will help you act mindfully and live with compassion.

Happiness is an internal state, not external

Happiness is usually equated with material possessions, relationships, connections, and experiences. But all of these are fleeting joys that leave before you even realise it. Hence, not everyone who has external abundance is happy, and those who are considered poor may be very content. True happiness, thus, lies within. If you’re at peace where you are, you are more likely to find joy in everything around you.

Also Read: Parenting tips: 8 essential life skills that must be taught from an early age

Staying calm in the face of adversity

Life isn’t constant. It is full of ups and downs, successes and failures. The Gita reminds us that staying calm and balanced in the face of adversity, or even when you achieve success, is a true marker of happiness. External circumstances shouldn’t control your reactions or mood. Equanimity is living in awareness and acting with the best intentions, regardless of the outcome.

Live with purpose and intention

A life well lived is one where your actions align with your purpose, giving meaning to everything you do. That’s what brings true happiness. The Gita teaches that true harmony is achieved when your actions reflect your inner truth. Hence, acting with purpose and intention brings more fulfilment and joy.

Sensory pleasure is not true joy

If you think real joy is in buying an expensive mobile, watching a movie, or enjoying food at a high-end restaurant, think again. These pleasures only distract from reality and won’t last for long. Happiness, however, is lasting and emotional. It is cultivated within and stems from peace, purpose, and contentment.

Also Read: From relationships to financial wisdom, health and more, 7 valuable lessons we often learn late in life

Train your mind and don’t be attached to results

The Gita teaches us to train our mind for a happy life. If you are able to control your reactions and stay calm and content, half the battle is won. Then life’s highs and lows won’t ruffle your feathers. Similarly, not attaching yourself to outcomes helps you stay sane. It is expected that you perform your duties and responsibilities to the best of your capacity, but don’t be emotionally tied to the result.