The Age-Old Methods for Self-Regulation: Insights from the Bhagwad Gita

Abstract

Self-regulation is a well-known concept in psychology in relation to motivation, learning and achievement. It is one of the important aspects of human life pertaining to a goal driven, meaningful and value-consistent life. Self-regulation encompasses the activities of goal selection, planning, consistent action, self-monitoring, and evaluation. This study aims to find the relation between the self-regulative action and the Nishkama karma proposed under Karma Yoga in Bhagwad Gita. The Bhagwad Gita provides a philosophical discourse between Lord Shri Krishna and Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. A grief-stricken Arjun gets an insight about true nature of living and performing the given duty without being afraid, attached, judgmental or envious. It is a guide to relieve us from the stress and dilemma and to improve upon our unhealthy lifestyle.