Anxiety is something we all face at different stages of life, but finding peace can feel elusive. Luckily, the Bhagavad Gita, a sacred Hindu scripture, offers timeless wisdom to help calm the mind and find inner balance. In this post, we’ll explore the top 5 verses from the Gita that provide deep spiritual insights and practical guidance for overcoming anxiety. Whether you're seeking relief from stress or looking for spiritual support, these verses can help you regain a sense of peace and purpose. Read on to discover the ancient teachings that can transform your mindset today.

1. Bhagavad Gita 2.47

"Karmanye vadhikaraste ma phaleshu kadachana, Ma karma-phala-hetur-bhur ma te sangostv-akarmani."

Meaning:
You have the right to perform your duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions. Do not let the outcome of your actions be your motive, and do not be attached to inaction.

Relevance for anxiety:
This verse encourages us to focus on our efforts rather than worrying about the results, which is often a source of anxiety. By releasing the need to control outcomes, we can experience more peace and presence in our actions.

2. Bhagavad Gita 2.14

"Matra-sparshas tu kaunteya, Shito-shna-sukha-dukha-dah, Agamapayino ’nityas tams titiksasva bharata."

Meaning:
O son of Kunti, the interactions of the senses with their objects give rise to fleeting feelings of pleasure and pain, heat and cold. These experiences are temporary and should be endured with patience.

Relevance for anxiety:
This verse reminds us that emotions and sensations—whether pleasant or unpleasant—are temporary. Understanding this can help us cope with anxiety by cultivating patience and resilience through life’s ups and downs.

3. Bhagavad Gita 6.5

"Uddhared atmanatmanam, natmanam avasadayet, Atmaiva hy atmano bandhuh atmaiva ripur atmanah."

Meaning:
A person must elevate themselves by their own mind, not degrade themselves. The mind is a friend to the self, and it can also be the greatest enemy.

Relevance for anxiety:
This verse teaches the importance of mastering one’s mind. Anxiety often stems from uncontrolled thoughts, and learning to guide the mind can help transform it from a source of distress into a tool for peace.

4. Bhagavad Gita 18.66

"Sarva-dharman parityajya mam ekam saranam vraja, Aham tvam sarva-papebhyo mokshayishyami ma shuchah."

Meaning:
Abandon all varieties of duties and surrender unto Me alone. I will deliver you from all sins. Do not fear.

Relevance for anxiety:
This verse encourages complete surrender to a higher power. By releasing control and trusting the divine plan, one can alleviate fears and anxieties, finding comfort in spiritual faith.

5. Bhagavad Gita 12.15

"Yasmannodvijate loko lokannodvijate ca yah, Harsha-marsha-bhayodvegair mukto yah sa ca me priyah."

Meaning:
He who neither disturbs the world nor is disturbed by it, who is free from joy, envy, fear, and anxiety, is dear to Me.

Relevance for anxiety:
This verse highlights the qualities of inner peace and equanimity. By striving to remain unaffected by external circumstances, and not allowing the world to disturb our inner calm, we can find freedom from anxiety.

These verses from the Bhagavad Gita offer profound insights on managing anxiety, helping us focus on mindful actions, mental mastery, patience, surrender, and inner peace.