Overthinking & a restless mind

यतो यतो निश्चरति मनश्चञ्चलमस्थिरम्। ततस्ततो नियम्यैतदात्मन्येव वशं नयेत्॥

When the volatile and wavering mind wanders, let him restrain it and bring it back to its allegiance to the Self.

Simple meaning

Krishna gives a simple practice: whenever the restless mind wanders, gently bring it back. Not by force or frustration, just by returning again and again.

In real life

चञ्चलं हि मनः कृष्ण प्रमाथि बलवद्दृढम्। तस्याहं निग्रहं मन्ये वायोरिव सुदुष्करम्॥

My Lord! Verily, the mind is fickle and turbulent, obstinate, and strong; indeed, it is extremely difficult to control, like the wind.

Simple meaning

Arjuna is completely honest: "The mind is restless, stubborn and powerful. Controlling it seems as hard as controlling the wind." Even great people struggle with their minds, and saying so is the start of change.

In real life

श्री भगवानुवाच असंशयं महाबाहो मनो दुर्निग्रहं चलं। अभ्यासेन तु कौन्तेय वैराग्येण च गृह्यते॥

Lord Shri Krishna replied: Doubtless, O Mighty One, the mind is fickle and exceedingly difficult to restrain; however, O Son of Kunti, with practice and renunciation, it can be done.

Simple meaning

Krishna agrees that the mind is hard to control, but says it can be done through two things: steady practice (abhyasa) and letting go of attachments (vairagya).

In real life