Of
all the things I've lost, I miss my mind the most - Mark Twain
MIND POWER Hi, I am Sudeshna Chatterjee. I
am not a psychiatrist. In fact, academically speaking, not even a psychologist
or a student of this subject. But I am obsessed with the way our minds work. As a
print journalist, I have written several articles on mental health for over
fifteen years. Even when I turned a freelancer, I have written articles on mental
health.
But this platform will not just be a montage of my memories, rather it will also air my current views on things I explore, wonder
and get curious about. As they say, once a journalist, always a journalist.
In due course of time, my posts will also feature short interviews and
profiles of people and their issues you may know but never thought in this manner or you have not come across such personalities in your everyday read. Like one of my inspirations, noted author,W.Somerset Maugham, the
obscure fascinates me more than the famous. The former speaks more relevant and
honest stuff than the latter who is usually rather superfluous. My blog is also about listening to that inner dialogue that every
reader’s mind hopefully will open up to. The subject could be anything. It is
the answer that identifies a discerning mind.
Going by Freudian flow of thoughts, mind is a complicated and a fictional space at that. Yet it translates and brackets thoughts into milieu of feelings. Our reactions are aligned with our feelings. That is what noted psychiatrist Dr. Anjali Chhabria explained to me. How is it possible? I mean, how a fictional character wields such an omnipotent presence, I wonder. In fact, there is a stunning painting by the noted actress of Hindi cinema, Shefali Shah, depicting this power. It is hung on the chamber wall of Dr. Chhabria’s Mumbai clinic. The good doctor observes, “We are yet to scientifically understand all the nuances of this fictional character called Mind.” So, what is Mind? Is it more a fantasy or a fable? Dr Chhabria says, “Mind is an abstract concept of thoughts, feelings, emotions, while the brain is an organ that can be seen and dissected. The mind cannot be seen but conceptualizes the functions of the brain. It also talks about a connection of the brain and the heart”.
What is your views on mind? When you read, does the mind that speaks attract you more than the face you see? Please do drop your thoughts.
Hope to see you there. Stay safe and happy.Thanks for your attention and promise that it will be quite a fascinating ride for perceptive minds.
Looking forward!
ReplyDeleteInteresting read. Mind is abstract and its essence may also change with changing times and circumstances. Though appearance may initially attract us but it's the mind that holds on forever. Ready to enjoy this interesting and intriguing ride with you. All the best. Lots of ❤️
ReplyDeleteYes . Good effort. It's wonderful subject. Nature is revealed but source is a secret creation of the creator. Like the creator kept himself a deep secret entity.
ReplyDeleteMy concept.. mind has 2 layers. One is the mind which is watching our mind . He is all knowing part of creator. Keep on directing 2nd mind what is right or wrong?
2nd one is always busy working . When we are not in sleep , it generate 60,000 thoughts a day . When sleeping , it appears in dream, fulfilling our subconscious desires. Controlling this mind is literally impossible.
But these 2 minds are the form less waves generate from Brain . As long as brain is working these 2 minds are playing. The moment Brain stops working the minds disappear.
Nobody knows why it's like this ? May be a diffidence weapon to keep the body living.
A face and expressions can be interesting but mind is more complex and intriguing. Look forward to your writing.
ReplyDeleteInteresting. I believe the mind is more than the sum total of memories, intellect and a decision-making tool. It is so much deeper, wider and more complex. There's a quantum quality to it, where multiple aspects coexist. What I've learned in my Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy course is also that it is the irrational beliefs we harbour in the mind that impact our thoughts and behaviour, and ultimately, our whole life and choices. The mind is that powerful.
ReplyDeleteDear Sudeshna, you are an interesting writer whose features in the national dailies, I have not forgotten. What I read in you is you are a keen observer, limited in talk ( except the known) and highly spiritual. In spiritual mode one can understand the wonders of the so called mind. Personally speaking , mind is 24x7 working as per the reactions in the brain... waiting to see more and writeup from you.
ReplyDeleteA wonderful read. Crisp, clear and introspective. So many vital questions! Look forward to more!! Congratulations, Sudeshna and keep it up!
ReplyDeleteTHANK YOU!!This list of spontaneous and insightful observations is however incomplete without the remark made by my former editor and popular columnist, Malavika Sangghvi, which I have the privilege to reproduce below.
ReplyDelete"A fascinating theme, Sudeshna and lovely reading your approach to it. Looking forward to more such from your inimitable pen.
Congratulations and every good wish".
MS
Colleagues, friends and now my editor. As in life, so in art, I am reminded of an immortal line of exactly two words by E.M. Forster: 'Only connect'. Then the understanding grows and the happiness one gets is deep and lasting. Gratitude.
Well, This is MIND blowing piece. Reading the MIND and writing about it, itself is an great thought. All minds can't do that.
ReplyDeleteCONGRATULATIONS. Looking forward to meet you in Mumbai Post lockdown. Mukesh Parpiani. Email.mukesh.ncpa@gmail.com