The Power of Words: Daily Life Practices Incorporating Teachings From Indian Psychology

Introduction

Language shapes our thoughts in many ways, the extent though is debatable. Language is also cultural. It carries the traditions and thought process of a community in it. As per Sondhi (2021), “In the Indian notions about Sabda Sakti, meaning the 'Power of the Word', language is seen from the earliest times as creative power both at cosmic and human levels. Modern science sees energy as the ultimate form of reality. In India, language has been worshipped and used as a manifestation of the energy of the goddess Saraswati since the Rg Veda.”

In Vedas language is seen as a creative and divine force. The act of chanting and medium of words is supposed to connect the atman with the divine and ultimate reality. The vibrations produced by these sounds are considered to be impactful. The concept of “Shabda Brahman” and the sacred syllable of Om shows how sound itself can make a sense of reality and identity. The “nadopasana” done by musicians like Tyagaraja Swami and Muthuswami Dikshithar also portray that the sadhana of sound, language and rhythm in itself can elevate an individual to the higher reality. Language, therefore, was considered to be part of divine revelation.

Language was not just a means of communication, it enlightened human experience. One might have heard in India to always say the positive words. Positive language is not about using words in a specific context to encourage or motivate someone to do something. It was a part of the everyday language people spoke. Most religions have a prayer before eating, before sleeping, which indicates gratefulness and humbleness at the same time. They kept us rooted and allowed one to always follow the righteous path.

The power of language also reiterates the sense of oneness in an Indian mind. Among the eastern perspective on psychology, the main teachings of Hindu traditions emphasize the interconnectedness of all things. The idea of harmonious union among all individuals is woven throughout the teachings” Cornelissen (2011). The use of positive words, thereby, enhances a positive psychology. In Positive Psychology in Practice (2004) edited by P. Alex Linley and Stephen Joseph, they give an overview of a set of practices which can help one in building a positive outlook. Ranging from the act of gratitude to physical activity and routine, language (verbal/non-verbal) constitutes a significant component in these practices. Sheldon Pollock in The Language of the Gods in the World of Men: Sanskrit, Culture, and Power in Premodern India (2006) examines how a language can build a powerful culture. Kamlesh Singh, Mahima Raina and Doug Oman in “Positive Psychology and Hinduism” discuss how “Hindu thought has always deliberated on the process, nature, conditions, and practices that lead to a fulfilled life” (2023). They delve deep into how “Hinduism’s core beliefs and tenets…guide daily living”. In Mantras: Words of Power (2005) Swami Sivananda Radha explores how mantra becomes a tool to train as well as liberate the mind. Language thus becomes a macrospace through which positive culture can be reaffirmed. Andrew Newberg and Mark Robert Waldman in Words can Change your Brain examine the power of words in shaping reality. They detail out how negative words can affect reality as well as the genes (2012). Words, thus, positive or negative have equal impact. Language, therefore, can be used for constructing and destructing reality.

Positive words have a hermetic and therapeutic impact on human psychology, shaping our thoughts, emotions and behaviours. Within the field of psychology, language plays a crucial role in shaping our cognitive processes, self-perception and interpersonal relationships. This paper explores the power of positive words, with a specific focus on the Indian psychological perspective and looking into practices that incorporate these into our daily life.