By DR BHUSHAN KUMAR UPADHYAYA :

 

Abhaya or fearlessness is one of the most important qualities of human character. It is not the absence of fear, but the ability to act wisely and confidently despite fear. The sixteenth chapter of the Bhagavad Geeta describes twenty six divine qualities. Amongst them Abhaya or fearlessness has been ranked the first and foremost. The placement of Abhaya in the first place is very significant. Fearlessness is the foundation upon which other divine qualities develop. Actually, fear is the natural psychological response of the human mind. It has an important evolutionary purpose to serve. It protects from dangers and prepares the body to respond to threatening situations. But persistent fear cripples our thinking and generates irrational thoughts. Confidence is weakened and cognitive ability declines. The challenge is not to eliminate fear, but to have mastery over it.

 

The Bhagavad Geeta offers a profound psychological approach to fearlessness.On the battlefield Arjuna experiences intense emotional disturbance. His mind is overwhelmed with fear, uncertainty and negatively anticipated consequences. His physical symptoms include trembling, sweating and loss of calm and composure. The situation closely resembles what modern psychology discusses acute stress response. Lord Krishna does not encourage Arjuna to escape from the difficult situations. Instead he makes Arjuna understand the importance of Nishkama Karma Yoga. Nishkama Karma Yoga is a great tool to develop fearlessness.

 

When we become excessively attached to the outcomes of our actions, the fears of failure, criticism and disappointment dominate our mind. Lord Krishna suggests Arjuna to concentrate on actions rather than remain psychologically dependent on outcomes. It is not indifference to outcomes, but to perform duties with commitments, sincerity and integrity. Neuroscience gives a very interesting explanation of this process. The amygdala, a part of the limbic system of the brain plays an important role in processing fear responses.

 

When the brain senses threats, it activates the physiological mechanisms involving the automatic nervous system. Heart rate increases, breathing becomes faster and the body prepares itself for fight, flight and freeze response. It cripples the prefrontal cortex, the regulating centre of the brain. The emotional balance is dysregulated and as a result the executive control of the brain is lost. Research proves that Yogic techniques like Pranayama, meditation and mindfulness practices restore cognitive balance and enhance emotional harmony.

 

Fear responses do not cloud rational thinking. These Yogic practices have been found to establish inner stability. One becomes self aware and develops Sakshi Bhava. Sakshi Bhava teaches how to view thoughts as the passing clouds in the infinite sky of consciousness. Fearful thoughts appear just as mental events rather than reality. It develops the ability to face challenges of life in a very courageous manner. Abhaya is not recklesslessness , aggression or lack of caution. It is a calculated response to problems of life supported by wisdom, patience and self discipline. Inner freedom is built upon the bedrock of fearlessness. Intellect does not lose its grip on emotions when one is fearless and one becomes responsive rather than reactive. Let fear arise in the mind, but not govern our life. (The writer is Former DG Police & CG, Homeguards, Maharashtra) ■