The Bhagavad Geeta says senses are valuable, but the mind is superior to the senses, and the intelligence is even more important than the mind. So the hierarchy is: intelligence, mind and senses.

But how do we treat our mind? We pollute our mind due to concerns for our bodies. Many mental diseases are the direct results of excessive concern for one’s body. The body is left behind and the mind goes to the next body. The same people who worry too much about their bodies become desperate to leave their bodies once their bodies become too painful.

So what should one do? Should one not take care of one’s body? One must because that is neither an option nor possible because of our inherent defense mechanism; we will do so naturally. However, worrying about one’s body is counter-productive and hence not advisable. What one should do is to take care of one’s body the best way possible.

The Geeta says this reduces one’s suffering; suffering cannot be eliminated vis-a-vis one’s body. Once one is in the material world in a material body, pains and pleasures are inevitable. No wonder, Lord Krishna advises us to be tolerant. In no case should such changes be allowed to pollute one’s mind. Even if a person does not believe in afterlife, there is no doubt that a diseased mind has the potential to damage one’s physical health badly. Lord Krishna counsels peace as the ultimate test for all actions. When peace is lost, where is the possibility of happiness?

The Geeta says the mind can be controlled by constant practice and detachment. Additionally, one must take shelter in God because one needs a force more powerful than the obstinate mind. Chanting of God’s names and praying are the easiest ways. Meditating on the forms of God is another excellent option.

The Geeta is full of such details; one can choose the processes most suitable to one’s nature. Because sacrificing one’s mind on account of excessive attachment for body is not the way to go.