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Tag: Practices of Self-Inquiry (Atma Vichara)

Penetrating the Five Sheaths: A Path to Self-Inquiry and Realization
Introduction:

The practice of self-inquiry, a central tenet of Advaita Vedanta, guides us on a profound journey to uncover the true nature of the Self, or Atman. This process involves penetrating through the five sheaths, or koshas, that veil our true essence. Pravrajika Devyanandaprana, in her presentation on self-inquiry, emphasizes this technique as a method to transcend our physical, mental, and emotional identities. This blog explores these five sheaths and their relation to the practice of self-inquiry.

The Five Sheaths:

1 Annamaya Kosha (The Physical Sheath):
- Description: The outermost layer, Annamaya Kosha, represents the physical body, sustained by food and material elements. It includes the skin, muscles, bones, and all other physical aspects.
- Role in Self-Inquiry: Self-inquiry begins by recognizing that we are not merely our physical body, even though it is often our most immediate identity. By asking “Who am I?” we start to discern that our true Self is beyond the physical form.
2 Pranamaya Kosha (The Vital Energy Sheath):
- Description: This sheath involves the life force, or prana, which energizes the body and governs physiological functions such as breathing, circulation, and digestion.
- Role in Self-Inquiry: As we inquire “Who am I?” we move beyond the identification with our breath and vital energy. This step brings us closer to understanding our deeper nature, recognizing that the life force is a layer we can transcend.
3 Manomaya Kosha (The Mental Sheath):
- Description: The Manomaya Kosha is the layer of the mind, encompassing thoughts, emotions, and perceptions. It governs our daily mental activities and reactions to the world.
- Role in Self-Inquiry: Through self-inquiry, we learn to see that we are not our thoughts or emotions. By persistently questioning “Who am I?” we begin to detach from the mental constructs and realize a deeper aspect of our being.
4 Vijnanamaya Kosha (The Wisdom Sheath):
- Description: This sheath encompasses intellect, discernment, and higher cognitive functions. It is responsible for understanding, judgment, and wisdom.
- Role in Self-Inquiry: Even our intellect and reasoning are not the ultimate Self. Self-inquiry encourages us to look beyond these cognitive functions by consistently questioning and observing that our true Self lies beyond intellectual understanding.
5 Anandamaya Kosha (The Bliss Sheath):
- Description: The innermost sheath, Anandamaya Kosha, is associated with deep contentment and joy, often experienced in deep meditation or sleep.
- Role in Self-Inquiry: While this sheath is closer to the Atman, even bliss is a layer to be transcended. Self-inquiry helps us understand that the true Self is beyond even this profound state of joy, resting in pure awareness.
Cultivating Self-Inquiry:
- Practical Application: To cultivate self-inquiry, start by incorporating the mantra “Who am I?” or “What am I?” into your daily meditation. Use this question to explore and transcend each sheath, moving closer to the realization of your true Self.
- Integration with Meditation: Integrate self-inquiry with other meditation practices like breath awareness or mindfulness. Allow the question to redirect your attention back to the felt sense of awareness, helping you penetrate each layer.
Conclusion:

The practice of self-inquiry is a powerful tool for uncovering the true nature of the Self by systematically penetrating through the five sheaths. As we transcend our physical, mental, and emotional identities, we move closer to realizing the Atman, our true essence. Self-inquiry is a lifelong practice that deepens our understanding of who we truly are. Future blog posts related to self-inquiry will be posted in this category, providing continued insights and guidance for those interested in this profound spiritual journey.

Reflective Questions:
- How do you perceive each of the five sheaths in your own experience?
- What challenges do you face in identifying with or transcending these sheaths?
- How has the practice of self-inquiry influenced your understanding of your true Self?
Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments. Your reflections can help create a richer community of practice and understanding.

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.

🙏🕊️🙏
August 18, 2024
The Yoga of Carl Jung: Integrating the Ego, Atman, and Brahman
“Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves, like locked rooms and like books that are now written in a very foreign tongue. Do not now seek the answers, which cannot be given you because you would not be able to live them. And the point is, to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps you will then gradually, without noticing it, live along some distant day into the answer.”

~ Rainer Maria Rilke, “Letters to a Young Poet”

In exploring the depths of human consciousness, both Carl Jung’s psychological theories and yogic philosophy offer profound insights into the nature of the self. Despite originating from different cultural and intellectual traditions, they converge on a central theme: the integration of various aspects of the self to achieve wholeness and enlightenment. This post delves into the parallels between Jung’s concepts and yogic teachings, focusing on the roles of the ego, Atman, and Brahman.

The Self According to Carl Jung

Carl Jung, a pioneering psychologist, introduced the concept of the Self as encompassing both the conscious and unconscious aspects of the psyche. He believed that the process of individuation, or personal development, involves integrating these unconscious elements into conscious awareness. This journey toward self-realization and wholeness allows individuals to uncover deeper truths about themselves and achieve psychological harmony.

Yogic Philosophy: Ego, Atman, and Brahman

In yogic philosophy, the self is understood through the interplay of the ego, Atman, and Brahman:
- Ego: The ego represents the individual, conscious identity, marked by personal desires, fears, and thoughts. It is the part of the self that interacts with the world and perceives itself as separate from others.
- Atman: Atman is the true Self, the deeper, unchanging essence of an individual beyond the ego. It is pure consciousness and awareness, representing the core of one’s being.
- Brahman: Brahman is the ultimate, universal consciousness, encompassing all existence. The realization of Brahman involves understanding that Atman (the individual Self) is not separate from this universal essence.
Integrating Jungian and Yogic Perspectives

When we align Jung’s idea of the Self with yogic teachings, a comprehensive picture of self-realization emerges:
1. Ego and Ordinary Mind: In both frameworks, the ego or ordinary mind is the initial stage of self-awareness. It involves the individual’s interaction with the world, characterized by fluctuating thoughts (vrittis) and personal narratives.
- The ego experiences separation and individuality.
1. True Self (Atman) and Stable Vrittis: Moving beyond the ego, the individual begins to experience the true Self or Atman. This state is marked by stable vrittis and similar pratyayas (mental contents), indicating a more unified and coherent state of consciousness. Here, the sense of “I” transitions from the personal ego to the deeper true Self.
- Stable vrittis and similar pratyayas reflect a unified consciousness.
1. Universal Self (Brahman) and Pure Awareness: The ultimate realization involves understanding that the true Self (Atman) is one with Brahman, the universal consciousness. In this state, there is no distinction between the individual self and the universal Self. This realization aligns with the experience of pure awareness in yogic contemplation, where the mind transcends individual thoughts and perceptions to rest in its true, unchanging nature.
- The true Self (Atman) is fundamentally connected to the universal consciousness (Brahman).
The Connection Between Ego, True Self, and Universal Self

An important insight from this integration is understanding the relationship between the ego, True Self, and Universal Self:
- Ego as a Fluctuation of the True Self: The ego, with its individual identity and personal narratives, can be seen as a temporary fluctuation or expression of the deeper True Self (Atman). While the ego experiences separation and individuality, it is ultimately a manifestation of the underlying, unchanging awareness of Atman.
- True Self as a Fluctuation of the Universal Self: Similarly, the True Self (Atman) can be understood as a particular expression or fluctuation of the Universal Self (Brahman). While Atman retains a sense of individual consciousness, it is fundamentally connected to and inseparable from the universal, all-encompassing consciousness of Brahman.
- Inherent Connection: This perspective highlights that, whether we are aware of it or not, we are all inherently connected through the Universal Self. Our individual experiences and identities are different expressions of the same underlying reality.
Recognizing that the ego is a fluctuation of the True Self, and the True Self is a fluctuation of the Universal Self, helps us understand our inherent interconnectedness. This realization fosters a sense of unity and compassion, knowing that at the deepest level, we are all part of the same universal consciousness.

Practical Exercise: Self-Inquiry and Integration

To help experientially understand these concepts, here are a few exercises based on self-inquiry, which integrate conscious and unconscious experiences. Each of these steps can be a lifetime practice. Understanding or realization of these ideas and practices may immediately strike an intuitive chord, but direct experience may require further contemplation and meditation. As Rilke suggests, sometimes it’s more important to live the questions than to immediately understand the answers. These steps are also not necessarily linear as presented; each step can unfold organically in its own way and time. Therefore, when studying and practicing these teachings, patience is truly a virtue.

Step 1: Settle into Meditation

Find a quiet place and sit comfortably. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths, allowing your mind to settle.

Step 2: Begin Self-Inquiry
- Ask yourself, “Who am I?” or “What is this ‘I’ that I experience?”
- Allow any mental events, fluctuations, experiences, thoughts, feelings, sensations, memories, or beliefs to arise without judgment. Simply observe them.
Step 3: Observe the Ego
- Notice the thoughts and feelings that are tied to your personal identity (ego). These might include your name, roles, likes, dislikes, desires, aversions, hopes, and fears.
- Recognize these as fluctuating vrittis and pratyayas of the ordinary mind.
Step 4: Move to the True Self (Atman)
- Shift your focus to the awareness that is observing these thoughts and feelings. This awareness is stable and unchanging.
- Ask yourself, “What is the nature of this awareness?” or “Who is aware of these thoughts?”
- Experience this deeper sense of “I” that is beyond personal identity. This is the Atman, your true Self.
Step 5: Contemplate the Universal Self (Brahman)
- Reflect on the idea that this true Self (Atman) is not separate from the universal consciousness (Brahman), in the same way that waves are not separate from the ocean.
- Meditate on the oneness of all existence, recognizing that your true Self is part of this greater whole.
Step 6: Integrate the Experience
- Spend a few moments in silence, allowing the experience to integrate into your awareness.
- When you’re ready, gently open your eyes and carry this sense of expanded awareness with you into your daily life.
Conclusion

The integration of Jungian psychology and yogic philosophy provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the self. By recognizing the roles of the ego, Atman, and Brahman, and integrating these aspects through self-reflection, meditation, and contemplation, individuals can move toward a state of wholeness and enlightenment. This journey not only enhances personal well-being but also fosters a deeper connection with the universal consciousness, embodying the true essence of both psychological and spiritual growth.

I Live My Life in Widening Circles

by Rainer Maria Rilke

I live my life in widening circles
that reach out across the world.
I may not complete this last one
but I give myself to it.

I circle around God,
around the primordial tower.
I’ve been circling for thousands of years
and I still don’t know: am I a falcon,
a storm, or a great song?

🙏🕊️🙏
August 17, 2024
Finding Peace Amidst Chronic Suffering

Living with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and chronic pain for over 30 years has been an immense challenge. There were times when the physical suffering seemed so overwhelming that it consumed my every thought. But as I journeyed deeper into spiritual practices and reflected on the nature of suffering itself, I came to a life-changing realization: much of my suffering wasn’t from the actual pain, but from my mind’s reaction to it. This distinction has become a cornerstone of my approach to living with chronic illness, and I’d like to share it with you, in hopes it may offer some clarity and comfort on your own journey.

Understanding Suffering:

Suffering is a universal part of the human experience, but what I’ve learned over time is that suffering doesn’t always arise directly from the pain itself. More often, it arises from the mind’s interpretation of the pain—the stories, fears, and resistance we build around it. This insight is well illustrated in the Buddhist teaching of The Second Arrow. The story goes that while we may be struck by the first arrow—representing the unavoidable pain that comes with being human—it is the second arrow, our mental and emotional response to that pain, that causes much of our suffering. We have no control over the first arrow, but we do have some control over the second one. When I began to understand this, I could see how my mind was amplifying my suffering by dwelling on it, resisting it, or fearing its persistence.

Recognizing this dynamic has helped me approach pain not as an enemy to be fought, but as an experience to be acknowledged without judgment. This doesn’t mean the pain vanishes, but it transforms how I relate to it, making room for moments of peace amidst the discomfort.

Finding Realization:

A deep shift in my experience of suffering came when I began exploring spiritual teachings that pointed to the true nature of the self. Teachers like Papaji and Mooji guided me toward moments of realization where I glimpsed the unchanging awareness that lies beneath all mental and physical experiences. In those moments, I recognized that the pain in my body and the thoughts in my mind were passing phenomena, while something vast and peaceful within me remained untouched. This was the beginning of a profound realization: I am not the pain, I am the awareness in which the pain arises.

However, sustaining this realization in daily life requires practice. It’s not about escaping pain or denying its presence, but about recognizing the part of us that remains constant and unscathed by the fluctuations of the mind and body. In this way, realization becomes a refuge, a space of stillness even as the storms of physical suffering continue.

A New Relationship with Pain:

Through mindfulness and meditation, I’ve learned to sit with the physical sensations in my body without immediately labeling them as good or bad. When I practice mindfulness, I bring a compassionate awareness to whatever arises, whether it’s pain, frustration, or fear. Instead of trying to push these feelings away, I let them be. This simple act of allowing has been one of the most powerful tools in transforming my relationship with suffering. By observing the sensations without judgment, I create space between myself and the pain, a space where peace can emerge.

Meditation has also been a sanctuary for me. By focusing on the breath or repeating a mantra, like the Medicine Buddha mantra, I find that I can calm the turbulent waves of the mind, even if the body is still in pain. This doesn’t take the pain away, but it brings a sense of inner calm that helps me cope more gracefully.

Another practice that has been transformative is self-inquiry, specifically investigating the “I” that claims ownership of the suffering. When I look closely at thoughts like “I am in pain,” I ask myself, “Who is this ‘I’ that is experiencing this?” This simple question often reveals that the sense of “I” is just another thought, another mental event.

I realize that I am not the thought or the pain. I am the awareness observing it all. This recognition doesn’t remove the physical sensations, but it softens their hold on me. It’s like taking a step back from the drama unfolding in the mind and body, and instead of being caught up in it, I become the quiet witness of it all. This shift in perspective helps dissolve the perceived separation between the observer and the observed, and in that union, peace is found.

Living with Compassion and Reflection:

As I continue to navigate life with chronic illness, I’ve come to see suffering as both a challenge and a teacher. Each moment of pain has the potential to teach us about resilience, about compassion, and about the nature of existence itself. Reflecting on my own journey, I often ask myself: what is this pain trying to show me? How can I meet it with acceptance instead of resistance? How can I extend the compassion I so often offer others to myself?

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the value of self-compassion. Chronic suffering can easily lead to frustration, self-criticism, or even feelings of failure. But I’ve come to realize that the first step toward healing is always kindness—to acknowledge my struggles without judgment and to treat myself with the same care and compassion I would offer to a loved one in pain. This practice of self-compassion doesn’t just ease the burden of suffering; it opens the heart to a deeper understanding of the shared nature of human experience.

Conclusion:

Living with chronic fatigue syndrome and chronic pain is undeniably difficult, but by transforming the way we relate to suffering, we can find moments of peace even in the midst of it. It’s not about eradicating pain or escaping it, but about changing the lens through which we view it. When we understand that much of our suffering is created in the mind—the second arrow—we can begin to soften our response to it. Through consistent mindfulness, meditation, self-inquiry, and self-compassion, it is possible to cultivate a deeper sense of peace and acceptance.

This journey is ongoing, and there is no finish line. But each moment of awareness, each breath of compassion, brings us closer to a more peaceful relationship with our pain. I invite you to reflect on your own experiences of suffering and how these practices might support you. Please feel free to share your thoughts and reflections in the comments below. Together, we can create a community of support, compassion, and healing.

🙏🕊️🙏

August 15, 2024
Transforming Distractions: From Obstacles to Objects of Awareness
Introduction:

Distractions are a common experience, whether during meditation or in the midst of daily activities. They often seem like obstacles, interrupting our focus and pulling us away from the present moment. However, what if these distractions could be transformed from obstacles into opportunities for deeper awareness?

Understanding Distractions as Pratyayas:

In Advaita Vedanta, the concept of pratyaya refers to objects of awareness—anything that arises in the field of consciousness. Distractions, in this context, are simply pratyayas that appear in the mind. Rather than viewing them as problems, we can understand them as natural occurrences in the landscape of the mind, much like clouds passing through the sky.

Integrating Self-Inquiry:

To deepen this understanding, we can integrate the practice of self-inquiry. When a distraction is noticed, instead of becoming frustrated or trying to push it away, we can gently ask, “Who or what is noticing this distraction?” This simple question shifts our focus from the distraction itself to the awareness that perceives it.

In this moment, awareness is present, and by shifting our attention from the distraction to the awareness, we create a space to explore the true nature of the self. This practice not only dissolves the power of the distraction but also redirects our focus to the essence of who we are—the awareness that is always present.

Shifting Perspective:

By adopting this approach, distractions are no longer seen as obstacles but as opportunities to deepen our practice. Each distraction becomes a doorway to self-inquiry, a reminder to return to the awareness that underlies all experiences. Instead of being caught up in the content of the distraction, we use it as a pointer back to the self—the true observer.

Practical Application in Meditation:

Here’s how you can apply this practice during meditation:
1. Notice the Distraction: When a distraction arises, acknowledge it without judgment. It is simply a pratyaya, an object in the field of awareness.
2. Ask the Question: Gently ask yourself, “Who is noticing this distraction?” Allow this question to shift your focus from the distraction to the awareness that perceives it.
3. Acknowledge and Shift: Recognize the distraction as a pratyaya and shift your attention to the awareness itself. This subtle shift can transform the experience, allowing you to rest in the awareness rather than being pulled by the distraction.
4. Return to the Practice: After acknowledging the awareness, gently return to the primary object of your meditation, such as the breath or mantra, with a renewed sense of presence.
The Liberating Effect of This Practice:

Integrating self-inquiry with the recognition of distractions can have a liberating effect on your meditation practice. It reduces the frustration that often accompanies distractions and transforms them into opportunities for deepening your understanding of the self. By practicing in this way, you cultivate a direct experience of the self as awareness, which transcends the fluctuations of the mind.

Conclusion:

Distractions, when approached with awareness and self-inquiry, become tools for spiritual growth rather than obstacles. This practice encourages a shift from identifying with the content of the mind to recognizing the ever-present awareness that observes it all. The next time a distraction arises, see it as an opportunity to explore the nature of awareness and deepen your connection with your true self.

🙏🕊️🙏
August 11, 2024
The Computer and AI Metaphor: Understanding Plurality Through the Lens of Atoms and Atman
In the rapidly advancing world of technology, computers and artificial intelligence (AI) have become powerful tools that can perform a multitude of comple tasks. But at the heart of these sophisticated systems lies a simple, fundamental reality: atoms. Just as computers and AI are composed of atoms arranged and manipulated to produce diverse outcomes, so too does the concept of Upadhi in Advaita Vedanta explain how a singular reality (Atman or Brahman) manifests as the pluralistic world we perceive.

Atoms as Atman: The Fundamental Building Blocks

At the most basic level, everything in the physical universe is composed of atoms. These tiny, indivisible units combine in various ways to form all matter—from the simplest elements to the most complex structures. Similarly, in Advaita Vedanta, Atman is the fundamental reality that underlies all existence. Atman, or pure consciousness, is the singular essence from which the diversity of life and the universe arises.

Upadhis as Programs: Creating Complex Outcomes

In the realm of technology, the operations of a computer or an AI system depend on the manipulation of electrical signals and the execution of complex algorithms. These algorithms, or programs, direct the flow of electrons through circuits, creating different outputs—images, sounds, data processing, and more. This is analogous to how Upadhis (limiting adjuncts or conditions) shape the expression of Atman, giving rise to the diversity of forms and experiences in the world.

Just as a single computer can perform a vast array of tasks depending on the programs it runs, the singular reality of Atman can appear as the manifold world when filtered through different Upadhis. The differences we perceive—whether in computers as varied outputs or in life as distinct entities—are ultimately products of the underlying uniformity being expressed in diverse ways.

The Illusion of Plurality: Seeing Beyond the Surface

When we interact with technology, it’s easy to see only the surface-level outputs—text on a screen, music from a speaker, a car navigating the road autonomously—and forget that all these are fundamentally the same at the atomic level. Similarly, in life, we often perceive the world as filled with separate, distinct entities without realizing the underlying oneness of Atman.

The diversity and complexity we experience are like the different functions of a computer: they are real in their context, but they don’t change the fundamental nature of the atoms (or Atman) that make them possible. This is the essence of the illusion of plurality. It’s not that the diversity isn’t there—it’s that the diversity is an expression of something deeper and singular.

Application to Self-Inquiry and Advaita Vedanta

Understanding this metaphor can be deeply enriching for those on the path of self-inquiry and Advaita Vedanta. It highlights the idea that while the world appears to be filled with diversity and complexity, it is all a manifestation of the same underlying reality—Atman or Brahman.
- Self-Inquiry: Just as one might examine the workings of a computer to understand its fundamental nature, self-inquiry involves turning inward to examine the true nature of the self. By asking “Who am I?” or “What is the essence of my being?” we begin to see beyond the surface-level differences created by Upadhis and recognize the underlying oneness.
- Meditation: Meditation allows us to quiet the “programs” of the mind and perceive the unity behind the diversity. In this state, we can experience the stillness of Atman, undisturbed by the fluctuations of the sensory world.
- Seeing the Divine in Everything: Recognizing that all forms and experiences are expressions of the same underlying reality encourages us to see the Divine in everything. Whether it’s the complexity of AI or the simplicity of a single atom, all is an expression of Brahman.
Conclusion: Embracing the Oneness Behind the Diversity

The computer and AI metaphor provides a modern, relatable way to understand the ancient concept of Upadhi in Advaita Vedanta. It shows us how a single, undifferentiated reality can manifest as a vast array of forms and functions, all while remaining fundamentally the same. By recognizing this, we can begin to see through the illusion of plurality and appreciate the underlying oneness of all existence.

This understanding not only enriches our spiritual practice but also deepens our appreciation of the world around us. Whether we are contemplating the nature of consciousness or simply observing the outputs of a computer, we are reminded that everything is an expression of the same fundamental essence. In this realization, we find both peace and profound connection to the infinite reality that is Brahman.

🙏🕊️🙏
August 11, 2024
Deepening the Practice of Self-Inquiry and Non-Duality
Welcome to this guided practice designed to deepen your understanding of self-inquiry and non-duality. This practice invites you to explore the nature of the “I-thought” as an expression of Brahman or pristine mind. By engaging in this practice, you can cultivate a deeper sense of unity and awareness, recognizing all experiences as manifestations of the same fundamental reality.

Introduction to the Practice

Self-inquiry is a profound method for exploring the nature of the self and its relationship to the broader reality. This practice involves contemplating the question “What is this?” and recognizing that all experiences which arise are mental events and expressions of the pristine mind. It encourages a non-judgmental, open inquiry that allows insights, which are also mental events and expressions of the pristine mind, to arise naturally. Whether you are new to self-inquiry or have been practicing for some time, this approach can help deepen your understanding and bring greater clarity and peace.

Review of Insights for Practice 1: Self-Inquiry (Atma Vichara)

Key Insights to Consider:

1. Nature of the I-Thought:
- The “I-Thought” is simply a mental event, a vritti, or a pratyaya.
- Just like waves in the ocean, the “I-Thought” is an expression of the same underlying awareness (pristine mind).
2. Non-Dual Awareness:
- Mental events and pristine mind are not separate; they are one. This reflects the Zen saying, “Not one, not two.”
- Atman (individual self) and Brahman (universal self) are essentially the same. The realization that Atman is Brahman is key to understanding non-duality.
3. Unity of Experience:
- What appears as two (fluctuations of mind and calm mind) is actually one unified experience.
- The fluctuations of mind (vrittis) arise and dissolve in the same awareness, which remains unchanged and ever-present.
4. Witnessing Awareness:
- The witness or the “I” experiencing pure awareness is not the ego but the true Self (Atman), which is equanimously free from attachment and aversion.
- Self-realization involves recognizing this witness and understanding that it is ultimately one with the universal Self (Brahman).
Practice 1: Self-Inquiry (Atma Vichara)

1. Find a Quiet Space:
- Sit comfortably in a place where you won’t be disturbed.
2. Focus on the Breath:
- Take a few deep breaths to settle the mind. Allow your breath to become natural and relaxed.
3. Ask the Question:
- Gently introduce the question: “Who am I?” or “What is this I-Thought?” Let the question arise naturally in your mind.
4. Investigate the I-Thought:
- Notice when the “I” arises in your thoughts. Ask yourself, “To whom does this thought occur?”
- Recognize that the one claiming ownership of the thought is itself another mental event. For example, “I am thinking this” or “This is my thought.”
- Observe this sense of “I” and inquire, “What is the source of this I-Thought?”
5. Rest in Awareness:
- When thoughts or answers arise, don’t engage with them. Simply notice them and return to the question.
- Recognize that the “I-Thought” and the thoughts recognizing it are mental events, like waves in the ocean.
- See all these mental events as expressions of Brahman or pristine mind.
6. Deeper Reflection:
- Reflect on the Zen saying, “Not one, not two.” Contemplate how the “I-Thought” and the awareness of the “I-Thought” are not separate.
- Consider how mental events, including the “I-Thought,” arise and dissolve in the same awareness.
7. Allow Space for Insights:
- Give space for insights to arise naturally. There is no need to force understanding; let it unfold in its own time.
8. Conclude with Gratitude:
- End your session with a moment of gratitude for the practice and any insights that may have arisen.
Deepening the Practice of Self-Inquiry:

1. Maintain Awareness of the Inquiry:
- As you contemplate, “What is this?” allow the question to permeate your awareness. Let it be a gentle, persistent inquiry that you return to whenever you notice your mind wandering.
2. Recognize All Experiences as Expressions:
- Continuously remind yourself that all thoughts, sensations, and perceptions are expressions of Brahman or pristine mind. This helps dissolve the perceived separation between the observer and the observed.
3. Stay Present with the Experience:
- Fully immerse yourself in the present moment, observing how thoughts and sensations arise and dissolve. Notice the underlying awareness that remains constant amidst these fluctuations.
4. Allow Insights to Arise Naturally:
- Avoid the urge to intellectually grasp or analyze the insights. Instead, allow understanding to arise naturally as you maintain a state of open inquiry.
5. Embrace Non-Judgmental Awareness:
- Observe without judgment. Whether the mind is active or calm, recognize both states as expressions of Brahman. This non-judgmental awareness fosters a deeper acceptance of your experience.
6. Integrate the Zen Question:
- When you ask, “What is this?” apply it to everything in your experience—thoughts, sensations, emotions, the sense of self. Allow the question to deepen your sense of curiosity and openness.
7. Rest in the Awareness:
- When moments of clarity or stillness arise, rest in that awareness. Recognize that this stillness is not separate from the fluctuations but the very ground of all expressions.
8. Periodic Reflection:
- Take moments during and after your practice to reflect on your experiences. How does the inquiry feel? What insights are emerging? How is your sense of self transforming?
9. Practice Consistently:
- Regular practice is key. Set aside dedicated time each day to engage in this inquiry, allowing the depth of understanding to gradually unfold.
10. Conclude with Gratitude and Dedication:
- End your sessions by expressing gratitude for the practice and any insights gained. Dedicate the merit of your practice to the benefit of all beings.
Conclusion

By maintaining this approach, you’ll be able to deepen your realization of non-duality and experience the unity of all expressions with the pristine mind. Let me know how the practice goes and if there are any specific experiences or questions you’d like to explore further.

Practice Reinforcement
1. Self-Inquiry:
- Continue with self-inquiry by keeping the focus on witnessing the source of the “I-Thought” and recognizing it as an expression of Brahman.
2. Regular Reflection:
- Spend a few moments each day reflecting on your true nature as an expression of Brahman. This regular contemplation can deepen your realization.
3. Mindful Awareness:
- Practice mindful awareness in all activities, noticing how each moment is an expression of the same underlying reality.
Reflection Points:
- Who or what is the I-Thought?: Reflect on your experience of the “I-Thought” during your practice. How does it feel to inquire into its nature?
- Non-Dual Awareness: Contemplate the unity of mental events and pristine mind. How does this realization impact your sense of self and awareness?
- How does recognizing thoughts and sensations as expressions of Brahman impact your sense of self and awareness?
- What insights arise when you inquire, “What is this?” in relation to your current experience?
Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below. Your participation helps create a supportive community for all those seeking inner peace and mindfulness.

🙏🕊️🙏
August 5, 2024
Embracing the Perception of Pristine Mind: A Journey to Personal Realization
For those living with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), each day can present unique challenges, from navigating profound fatigue to managing a complex range of symptoms. In this context, finding ways to foster mental clarity and emotional resilience can be crucial for maintaining a sense of well-being. One transformative approach involves perceiving and integrating the concept of the “pristine mind”—a state of pure, unconditioned awareness.

This blog post explores how understanding and embracing the pristine mind can offer valuable insights and support for individuals with ME/CFS. By cultivating a deeper awareness of our true nature, we can enhance our capacity to cope with illness, find moments of peace amidst struggle, and navigate our daily lives with greater clarity and intention.

Understanding Pristine Mind

The pristine mind refers to a state of pure, unconditioned awareness—free from the distortions of ego, emotions, and external influences. It is a mind that sees things as they are, without the overlay of personal biases or judgments. This concept is prevalent in various spiritual traditions, including Buddhism, Advaita Vedanta, and contemplative practices.

The Journey to Perceive Pristine Mind
1. Cultivate Mindfulness: Begin by developing a regular mindfulness practice. Mindfulness helps you become aware of your thoughts, emotions, and sensory experiences in the present moment. For those with ME/CFS, mindfulness can assist in recognizing and managing fatigue and pain without becoming overwhelmed. Focus on gentle practices that accommodate your energy levels, such as short meditations or mindful breathing exercises.
2. Practice Self-Inquiry: Engage in self-inquiry to explore the nature of your mind. Questions like “Who am I?” or “What is the essence of my awareness?” can guide you to look beyond surface-level thoughts and emotions. This practice can help you address feelings of frustration or helplessness related to your condition, fostering a deeper understanding of your inner resilience and acceptance.
3. Let Go of Attachments: Work on releasing attachments to personal identities, beliefs, and desires that cloud your perception. For individuals with ME/CFS, this might involve letting go of rigid expectations about what you should be able to do or how you should feel. Embrace a more flexible mindset, allowing yourself to adapt and find peace in your current state.
4. Embrace Stillness: Create spaces of stillness in your life where you can connect with a sense of inner peace. For those managing ME/CFS, find ways to incorporate moments of quiet and relaxation that suit your needs. These moments can help you gain clarity and insight into your true nature, even amidst the limitations of your condition.
Receiving the Perception of Pristine Mind
1. Recognize the Experience: When you begin to perceive the pristine mind, you might notice a sense of deep clarity, stillness, or a profound sense of “knowing.” For someone with ME/CFS, recognize these moments of insight and peace as valuable experiences that can offer comfort and perspective, even during challenging times.
2. Integrate the Awareness: Integrate this perception into your daily life by maintaining the awareness of the pristine mind in your interactions and decisions. Apply this awareness to manage symptoms and make choices that align with your well-being, focusing on actions that reflect your deeper understanding and acceptance.
3. Nurture Your Practice: Continue nurturing your spiritual practices to deepen your connection with the pristine mind. For individuals with ME/CFS, this might involve adapting your practices to suit your energy levels and incorporating regular, gentle reflections or meditations that support your ongoing journey.
4. Share and Reflect: Share your insights with others and reflect on how perceiving the pristine mind influences your interactions and understanding of the world. Engaging in supportive communities or sharing your experiences can enhance your personal growth and offer encouragement to others facing similar challenges.
Conclusion

Receiving the perception of the pristine mind is a transformative experience that unveils a deeper understanding of your true nature. By cultivating mindfulness, engaging in self-inquiry, letting go of attachments, and embracing stillness, you can perceive and integrate this pure awareness into your life. As you continue on this path, the pristine mind will guide you toward a more authentic and enlightened existence. Embrace this journey with openness and curiosity, and let the clarity of the pristine mind illuminate your path.
August 1, 2024