3 Ways to Develop an ‘Ever-Young’ Mind by Asking Ourselves QuestionsPick the Brain

Jiddu Krishnamurti (1895–1986) was a remarkable thinker and mystic. One of the intriguing aspects of his philosophy and discussions was his rejection of the traditional role of a spiritual leader and his refusal to offer definitive answers to his audience. Attendees at his public lectures and conversations were often taken aback when Krishnamurti would ask questions like ‘What is the purpose of life?’ dismiss all conceivable answers, and leave the questions unresolved, leaving his listeners contemplative. For Krishnamurti, this was a way to stimulate the intelligence of his audience, forcing them to look inward.

Typically, we ask questions to gain knowledge and information. Krishnamurti, however, used questions to liberate his listeners’ minds from the constraints of conditioned knowledge. There are other philosophical traditions that have challenged the conventional use of questions. Approximately 2,400 years ago, Socrates roamed the Athenian marketplace, challenging the beliefs of passersby by asking questions that exposed the flaws in their convictions. In the Rinzai school of Zen in Japan, masters present students with riddles (koans) to guide them towards a state of unknowing and, in some cases, spiritual enlightenment.

One of the distinctive aspects of Krishnamurti’s approach is his belief that questions, when utilized effectively, can stimulate cognitive rejuvenation. In his discussions with physicist David Bohm, Krishnamurti even suggested that engaging with questions could lead to a transformation of the brain’s cells. This assertion is not entirely implausible considering the scientifically proven concept of brain plasticity. Through my academic exploration of Krishnamurti’s methodology, I have come to believe that this approach can lead us to what I refer to as the ‘ever-young mind.’

Today, there is a growing interest in strategies to prevent mental decline. Studies have shown that mental stimulation, proper nutrition, physical activity, emotional well-being, and social connections are key factors in maintaining a youthful brain. However, Krishnamurti approached the issue of cognitive aging from a different perspective. He believed that while aging is a natural process, the reason our minds grow old is because they are preoccupied with seeking answers rather than asking questions. After accumulating vast knowledge, experiences, and memories, our minds become trapped, repeating the same narratives and rejecting new insights. Eventually, they lose their freshness and vitality.

Through my research, I have identified three simple techniques from Krishnamurti’s method that can serve as powerful tools for combating brain aging:

1. Holding Questions. Begin by formulating a question. It could be a profound inquiry (‘What is the essence of true love?’) or a personal dilemma (‘Should I continue in this relationship?’). Notice how your mind immediately seeks answers. Instead of rushing to find a solution, pause and attentively contemplate the question, allowing it to resonate within you like a pebble dropped into a calm pond. This disrupts your habitual thought patterns. Krishnamurti advises approaching the question with a sense of curiosity and sensitivity, delving deep into its essence. As you listen intently, you may find yourself delving into the heart of the question. Let the presence of the question open your mind to new possibilities. By trusting that the answer lies within the question, you may experience a sudden insight or realization from your quieted mind.
2. Living With Questions. Krishnamurti believed that a youthful mind embraces questions not merely as a mental exercise but as a steadfast internal stance. Choose a question that intrigues you but for which you have no immediate answer, and commit to living with it. You can select a new question each week, revise or reframe your question as needed, or stay with a single question for an extended period. Living with a question keeps your mind alert, vibrant, and dynamic.
3. Negation. The value lies not in finding an answer to your question but in how you confront the challenge it presents. Use the question to reflect on your conditioned responses. When you pose a question to yourself, numerous answers, memories, and emotions from the past may surface. Take note of all these ‘answers.’ This process empties your mind of its preconceptions. When your mind is cleared through negation, it undergoes a revitalization. It feels lighter, more receptive, and present in the moment.

Shai Tubali (first name pronounced SHY, last name rhymes with jubilee) is an expert in happiness history. His books have been published internationally in 11 languages over the past two decades by major publishers. His notable works have received awards in the United States and Israel, with several becoming bestsellers and inspiring thousands on their journeys of inner transformation. Tubali, a PhD researcher at the University of Leeds, UK, explores 35 meditation techniques from around the world in his latest book, “Llewellyn’s Complete Book of Meditation,” released in January 2023. With advanced studies in science fiction film and popular culture, Tubali shares universal principles to aid modern individuals grappling with trauma, fear, uncertainty, depression, anxiety, and screen addiction. Explore methodologies and research on attaining serenity and clarity at shaitubali.com.