Psychology of Maa Chandraghanta
Navratri Day 3 | A Psychological Perspective on Mental Wellness
Fear is not always a sign of weakness. Sometimes, it is the mind’s attempt to protect us from danger, uncertainty or rejection. The real challenge begins when fear starts controlling our choices, relationships and everyday lives.
Maa Chandraghanta, the third form of Goddess Durga worshipped during Navratri, symbolises courage, strength and protection. Her powerful yet divine form offers a spiritual reminder that facing life’s challenges requires both courage and discernment.
From a psychological perspective, fear is a natural response to perceived danger. Fear activates the body’s fight-or-flight response, helping us respond to potential threats. However, anxiety may persist even when no immediate danger exists. When fear begins to interfere with daily functioning, it deserves attention rather than judgment.
This distinction is essential for mental wellness. Not every uncomfortable situation is dangerous, and not every fear should determine our decisions. Sometimes we need to protect ourselves; at other times, we need to challenge our assumptions and gradually face what we have been avoiding.
The symbolism of Maa Chandraghanta inspires us to develop courage with discernment. In everyday life, this may mean speaking up respectfully, setting healthy boundaries, seeking help when necessary or taking a constructive step despite uncertainty. Courage does not require us to ignore danger; it helps us respond appropriately instead of being governed by fear.
Psychological approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy help people examine unhelpful thought patterns and develop healthier responses to anxiety. Exposure-based techniques, when appropriately guided, can also help people gradually confront situations they fear. These are evidence-based therapeutic approaches—not outcomes that can be guaranteed through spiritual practice alone.
A reflection for today: Identify one situation you have been avoiding because of fear. Ask yourself: Is there a genuine risk, or is my mind anticipating an outcome that may never happen? Consider one safe, realistic step towards addressing it. If the fear is overwhelming or persistent, professional support can help.
Maa Chandraghanta’s spiritual significance reminds us that strength is not merely the power to confront the world; it is also the wisdom to know when to act, when to seek protection and when to move forward.
This Navratri, let courage become a conscious choice—not the absence of fear, but the freedom to act wisely in its presence.
Rakesh Babu
Psychologist | www.shreshtaminds.com
SSS
Superb 🔥 Thankyou 🙏