Exploring Self-Consciousness: A Journey Towards Self-Knowledge and Absolute Existence

In the words of Pravrajika Devyanandaprana, “Research into Self-consciousness is what this Self-knowledge is actually about. This consciousness has been described as ‘Sat’, absolute existence. In your own experience you can catch this. Only if you are aware, can you perceive something.” These words offer a profound insight into the spiritual journey towards understanding the true nature of our existence.

In this blog post, we will delve into the concept of self-consciousness, explore the meaning of ‘Sat’ or absolute existence, and offer practical guidance on how to experience this consciousness in your daily life.

Understanding Self-Consciousness

Self-consciousness is more than just being aware of oneself as a person in the world; it is the deeper awareness of the fundamental consciousness that underlies all experience. This consciousness is not tied to our thoughts, emotions, or physical sensations, but is the unchanging awareness that perceives these experiences.

According to Swamiji, the journey of Self-knowledge begins with researching this self-consciousness. But what does this research entail? It is not about intellectual inquiry alone but involves a direct experiential investigation into the nature of your own awareness.

The Meaning of “Sat” – Absolute Existence

In Vedanta, “Sat” refers to absolute existence, the fundamental reality that is beyond all change and decay. It is the very essence of being, the pure consciousness that exists independently of the mind and body. This “Sat” is your true nature, and it is through the awareness of self-consciousness that you can begin to experience it.

When Swamiji says, “Only if you are aware, can you perceive something,” she points to the fact that consciousness is the prerequisite for all perception and experience. Without awareness, nothing can be known or experienced. This awareness, when recognized as the true Self, reveals the nature of “Sat,” absolute existence.

Practical Steps to Experience Self-Consciousness and Sat

1. Cultivate Mindful Awareness:

• Start by cultivating a practice of mindfulness. This involves being fully present in the moment, observing your thoughts, emotions, and sensations without judgment or attachment. The goal is to become aware of the awareness itself—the one who is observing.

1. Engage in Self-Inquiry:

• Begin to ask yourself the question, “Who am I?” or “What am I?” Not with the intention of finding an intellectual answer, but to turn your attention inward towards the pure consciousness that is the source of all thoughts. This practice helps in disidentifying from the mind and recognizing the unchanging awareness that is your true Self.

1. Practice Meditation:

• Set aside time each day to meditate. Focus on your breath, or use a simple mantra to calm the mind. As your mind settles, introduce the inquiry into self-consciousness. Simply notice the awareness in which all thoughts and sensations arise. Over time, this practice will lead you to a direct experience of “Sat,” the absolute existence.

1. Reflect on Your Experiences:

• After each practice session, take some time to reflect. How did you experience your awareness? Were there moments where you felt a deeper sense of existence beyond the mind and body? Reflection helps integrate these experiences into your daily life.

1. Live with Awareness:

• Carry this awareness into your everyday activities. Whether you are working, interacting with others, or simply relaxing, try to maintain a sense of self-consciousness. This continuous practice will gradually deepen your understanding and experience of “Sat.”

The Benefits of Understanding Self-Consciousness and Sat

• Inner Peace: As you begin to identify with the unchanging awareness rather than the fluctuating mind, a deep sense of peace and stability arises within you.
• Clarity of Purpose: Understanding your true nature as “Sat” brings clarity and direction in life, as your actions and decisions align more with your authentic self.
• Freedom from Suffering: By recognizing that you are not your thoughts, emotions, or physical form, you can transcend much of the suffering that comes from attachment and identification with these temporary experiences.
• Spiritual Awakening: Ultimately, this journey leads to a profound awakening to the true nature of reality, where you experience oneness with all that is.

Conclusion: A Lifelong Journey

Swamiji’s teachings on self-consciousness and “Sat” guide us towards a deeper understanding of our true nature. This journey of self-knowledge is not a quick fix or a one-time realization; it is a lifelong exploration that requires patience, dedication, and an open heart.

As you embark on this path, remember that every step you take towards understanding your self-consciousness brings you closer to experiencing the absolute existence that is your true Self. Let these practices become a natural part of your life, and over time, the awareness of “Sat” will become a living reality for you.

Below is the original source video of the lecture with Swami Parvajika Devyanandaprana, from which these blog posts were inspired. Here you can explore the insightful teachings that have profoundly shaped the content and perspectives shared in this blog.

🙏🕊️🙏