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"Your own Self-Realization is the greatest service you can render the world."
The world around us is impermanent, constantly changing. When we reflect on life’s impermanence, it becomes clear that the search for truth is what truly matters. What can you take with you when you die? The wise person seeks truth now.
This guide will go over some of the main areas you might address.
"What you seek is seeking you."
The non-dual understanding addresses two essential questions: one, ‘How may we be free of suffering and find the lasting peace and happiness for which all people long above all else?’, and two, ‘What is the nature of reality?’
There are only two things you need to know — that peace and happiness are the nature of your being, and that you share your being with everyone and everything.
It is the understanding that beneath the multiplicity and diversity of experiences lies a singular, infinite, and indivisible reality, characterized by pure consciousness.
From this consciousness, all objects and selves derive their seemingly independent existence.
Recognizing this reality not only brings lasting happiness, but also serves as the foundation for peace among people, communities, and nations.
At the core of non-dual teachings is the understanding that pure consciousness is the fundamental nature of reality. Everything we experience, from physical objects to thoughts and emotions, arises from this singular consciousness.
This realization transcends the dualistic framework that separates subject from object, self from other, and mind from matter.
This process involves examining the nature of the Self and discerning the true essence beyond the layers of thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations. Through deep introspection and meditation, one comes to the direct experience of their own consciousness as infinite and boundless.
The recognition of oneness brings about a sense of lasting peace, joy, and fulfillment that is independent of external circumstances. It dissolves the egoic boundaries that create feelings of separation and conflict, fostering a deep sense of connection with all life.
In practical terms, non-dual awareness encourages living in the present moment with clarity and openness. It invites us to let go of limiting beliefs and habitual patterns that obscure our true nature.
By embracing the principles of non-duality, we can cultivate compassion, empathy, and harmonious relationships, contributing to a more peaceful and interconnected world.
Throughout history, the essence of non-duality has been expressed in various spiritual traditions.
In Christianity, it is reflected in the statement, “I and my Father are one.” In Buddhism, it is articulated as the realization that “Samsara and Nirvana are one.” The Sufi mystics convey it with the saying, “Whosoever knows their self knows their Lord.”
These expressions point to the universal truth that our individual consciousness is inherently united with the ultimate reality.
Non-duality offers a profound shift in understanding and experiencing life. It calls us to explore the depths of our own being, recognize the interconnectedness of all existence, and live with an awareness that transcends the illusion of separateness.
This realization is not only the key to personal liberation, but also the foundation for a harmonious and compassionate world.
Non-duality is always the same, “That nothing exists but the Self.” It may be taught in slightly different ways but the teaching will always be the same. That there is no existence, there is only the self, pure awareness, absolute reality.
"The mind creates time and space, and takes its own creations for reality. All is here and now, but we do not see it. Truly, all is in me and by me. There is nothing else. The very idea of “else” is a disaster and a calamity."
Self-realization is the recognition of one’s true nature. It involves a fundamental shift in consciousness that leads to a direct experience of one’s real essence, transcending the superficial layers of identity.
In Eastern spirituality, however, self-realization—or Atma Jnana—is seen as the ultimate purpose of life. It goes beyond personal development and involves transcending the ego to realize one’s identity with the Atman (the true Self), which is not individual but universal.
1. Awareness of True Self: Self-realization entails becoming aware of the deeper aspects of one’s being beyond the ego or the conditioned self. It involves transcending the identification with thoughts, emotions, and roles, and recognizing the unchanging essence of consciousness that underlies all experience.
2. Direct Experience: Self-realization is not merely intellectual understanding but a direct, experiential realization of one’s essential nature. It often involves moments of insight, clarity, or revelation in which the illusion of separation dissolves, and one recognizes oneself as interconnected with all of existence.
3. Freedom from Illusion: Self-realization involves breaking free from the illusions of the ego, including beliefs, conditioning, and attachments that obscure one’s true nature. It is a process of deconstructing the false self and aligning with the truth of one’s being.
4. Integration and Embodiment: Self-realization is not a one-time event but an ongoing process of integration and embodiment. It involves living from a place of authenticity, wisdom, and compassion, aligning thoughts, words, and actions with the realization of one’s true nature.
5. Inner Peace and Fulfillment: Self-realization brings about a deep sense of inner peace, contentment, and fulfillment that is independent of external circumstances. It involves finding wholeness and completeness within oneself, beyond the pursuit of transient pleasures or achievements.
6. Connection with the Divine: Self-realization often involves recognizing the divine essence within oneself and realizing the inherent connection with the universal consciousness or divine source. It is a realization of unity and oneness with all of existence.
Self-realization transcends the body, mind, thoughts, and even spiritual practices. It is the ultimate reality—pure awareness that goes beyond words and concepts. The finite mind cannot grasp it.
"Dive into your heart center. Sit in the silence. Desire self-realization with all your heart, with all your mind, and all your soul. Everything will take care of itself."
The spiritual path is often not consciously chosen but unfolds naturally. Many live without taking off on this journey, but for those who do, it arises as a continuation of previous experiences.
There are four main paths to Self-realization:
Each suits different temperaments, but they all lead to the same goal—union with the Self. While some may focus on one path, they often overlap, integrating action, devotion, and wisdom, all leading to Self-realization.
True spiritual life begins within, not from external teachings or practices.
Meditation, self-inquiry, service, and philosophical exploration all serve to remove the distractions of the mind, but they are not the ultimate goal. The search for happiness and enlightenment is unnecessary because they are already your true nature.
Start with yourself. Don’t worry about all kinds of teachings. The right teaching and teacher will come. You will be attracted to the right teacher, to the right books, to the right situations. Just let it happen and don’t overthink it.
In the silence of being, beyond words or teachings, true realization emerges. There is nothing to attain because you are already self-realized. Just allow that awareness to unfold.
Self-realization can be pursued through various spiritual practices. Some common include:
It is through the association with Sages, reading spiritual literature, attending satsang, practicing self-inquiry or any other method of sadhana that you will awaken.
Remember, you are always already self-realized. Bliss and liberation are your very nature. Start from that point of view. Feel in your heart that you’re already self-realized trying to awaken to that fact.
"When you speak of a path, where are you now? and where do you want to go? If these are known, then we can talk of the path. Know first where you are and what you are. There is nothing to be reached. You are always as you really are. But you don’t realise it. That is all."
Through persistent practice, the ego’s grip loosens, and the sense of individuality merges into the universal consciousness. The journey of sadhana leads one to recognize that there is no separate self, only the one undivided reality.
Everything is part of sadhana—every moment, every action, every thought becomes an opportunity for spiritual practice. It is not limited to the time spent in meditation or formal practices but can be woven into every aspect of life.
Sadhana can encompass a variety of practices:
Meditation: One of the most essential sadhanas in non-dual traditions, meditation helps quiet the mind and detach from the constant flow of thoughts. By immersing in stillness and silence, one begins to experience the pure awareness that lies beyond the mind.
Self-Inquiry (Atma Vichara): Self-inquiry involves deeply questioning, “Who am I?” and examining the true nature of the self. This practice allows one to peel away the layers of identification with the body, mind, and emotions, ultimately revealing the underlying, non-dual awareness.
Bhakti (Devotion): Devotional practices, such as chanting, prayer, and ritual, can also be part of one’s sadhana. These practices help cultivate a sense of surrender and devotion to the divine, dissolving the ego and leading to a direct experience of oneness with the source of all existence.
Karma Yoga (Selfless Service): Engaging in selfless service without attachment to the results is another powerful sadhana. By dedicating one’s actions to the greater good and relinquishing personal desires, one can transcend the ego and experience the interconnectedness of all life.
Jnana Yoga (Path of Knowledge): The study of sacred texts and contemplation on their teachings is a crucial aspect of sadhana in non-dual traditions. Understanding the principles of non-duality intellectually prepares the mind for deeper experiential realization.
Pranayama: is the practice of controlling the breath, a fundamental aspect of yoga. The term comes from Sanskrit, where “prana” means life force or vital energy, and “yama” means control. Through various breathing techniques, pranayama aims to harmonize the flow of prana within the body, promoting overall health and quieting the mind.
Integrating Sadhana into Daily Life
Mindfulness: Practicing mindfulness in everyday activities, such as eating, walking, and working, helps keep the mind focused on the present moment, reducing distractions and enhancing the sense of unity with all that is.
Detachment: Cultivating detachment from outcomes and maintaining equanimity in the face of success and failure is essential. True fulfillment comes from within, not from external circumstances.
Compassion and Love: Embracing compassion and love for all beings as expressions of the same divine consciousness fosters a sense of oneness and interconnectedness, essential for realizing non-dual awareness.
Sadhana simply makes you strong–mentally, physically, emotionally–to be able to let go. That’s all sadhana does. The more you work on yourself spiritually, the easier these things will be for you to do.
When the time comes, the inner guru seizes the mind, pulls it into the heart, and liberation follows. Sadhana helps you prepare for this moment, making you ready to let go of the ego and fully awaken to your true nature. It is through this preparation, cultivated over time, that grace takes hold and realization blossoms.
"At first you think that your sadhana Is a limited part of your life. In time you realize that Everything you do is part of your sadhana."
Satsang, a Sanskrit term meaning “association with truth,” is a revered practice in various spiritual traditions, particularly within Hinduism and non-duality teachings such as Advaita Vedanta.
The purpose of satsang is to create an environment where spiritual seekers can immerse themselves in wisdom that transcends the illusory separations of everyday life and points toward the realization of oneness.
It involves coming together, often in the presence of a teacher, sage or guru, to seek and experience the ultimate truth of existence.
Together, satsang is a gathering where people unite in the pursuit of truth—where individual egos dissolve, and the underlying reality of existence is experienced as one unified Self.
The words spoken in satsang, whether they are about spiritual concepts or something as mundane as everyday life, are not the main focus. What matters is the energy of presence, the quiet stillness where the heart opens completely.
In satsang, through humility and surrender, one’s ego, past karma, preconceived ideas, and dogmas are surrendered to the Self.
Elements of Satsang:
The Purpose of Satsang
There are no rules, no regulations, and no specific outcomes to strive for in satsang. It is a space of total freedom, where the seeker comes to understand that there is no path, no destination, and no external truth to be found.
Instead, satsang points to the fact that the truth lies within. The questions “Who am I?”, “Where did I come from?”, “Where am I going?”, and “What is my purpose?” arise naturally during satsang, but they have no intellectual answers.
Instead, these questions guide the seeker deeper into the silence and stillness of their own heart, beyond the grasp of the mind.
Benefits of Satsang:
Transmission of Wisdom: In satsang, a teacher or enlightened individual shares insights and teachings that go beyond intellectual understanding, touching the deeper aspects of the heart and consciousness. This transmission can catalyze personal transformations and awakenings.
Collective Energy: The combined energy of a group of sincere seekers creates a powerful field that can support individual and collective spiritual growth. This shared space often enhances the depth of meditation and understanding.
Inquiry and Dialogue: Satsang provides an open forum for questions, discussions, and personal inquiries. This interactive element helps clarify doubts, resolve misunderstandings, and deepen the participants’ grasp of spiritual principles.
Meditative Presence: Many satsangs include periods of silent meditation, allowing participants to directly experience the stillness and presence that underlie all phenomena. This meditative silence is a gateway to the realization of non-duality.
Embodiment of Truth: The teacher in a satsang often embodies the truths they teach, serving as a living example of what is possible. This embodiment can inspire and guide seekers on their own paths.
Total Freedom and the Elimination of the I-thought.
The purpose is to eliminate the I-thought. It is only the I-thought that stands between you and liberation. Once that thought is transcended, what remains is the boundless, timeless awareness that is your true nature. There is nothing else to contend with, nothing else to do.
"Never forget the truth about satsang. Every word, every breathe, every moment of Silence, every joke, everything makes up satsang. And this is your Spiritual unfoldment. This is what causes you to evolve, to grow, to transcend."
Self-inquiry is a teaching by Indian sage Ramana Maharshi as the most direct method to self-realization. It is a journey of introspection that begins with the recognition that our true nature is often obscured by the content of our experiences.
Through persistent questioning and investigation, we peel away the layers of thoughts, emotions, and sensations to uncover our essential nature: pure awareness. This self-awareness, often overshadowed by distractions, holds the key to our inherent peace and happiness.
Through such inquiry, we come to recognize that peace and happiness are already present within us. As we deepen our connection to this truth, a profound sense of inner peace arises, leading us to self-realization.
Exploring Self-Enquiry:
"The question 'Who am I?' is not really meant to get an answer, the question 'Who am I?' is meant to dissolve the questioner."
Spiritual awakening is a profound shift in consciousness, characterized by a deep understanding of one’s true nature and a heightened sense of awareness. It marks the transition from identifying with the limited, individual self to recognizing a more expansive, unified reality.
It involves a shift from identifying with the limited, individual self to recognizing a deeper, more expansive reality. This process can be gradual or sudden and is often accompanied by a sense of liberation, peace, and interconnectedness with all life.
The Characteristics of Awakening
Presence: Awakening brings a deep presence to the moment. One becomes fully engaged with life as it unfolds, without being distracted by past regrets or future anxieties. This presence is rooted in the understanding that life can only be experienced in the now.
Non-Attachment: With the realization of non-duality, attachment to material possessions, outcomes, and even personal identities diminishes. This non-attachment doesn’t mean indifference, but rather a freedom from the compulsive need to control and possess.
Compassion and Love: As the illusion of separateness fades, a natural compassion and love for all beings arises. This universal love is grounded in the recognition that we are all expressions of the same underlying reality.
Inner Peace: The sense of inner turmoil and conflict dissolves with the realization of one’s true nature. There is a profound peace that comes from knowing oneself as the ever-present awareness, untouched by the fluctuations of life.
Spiritual awakening in the context of non-duality is the journey to recognizing the oneness of all existence and realizing one’s true nature as pure awareness.
It involves transcending the illusion of the separate self, integrating this understanding into daily life, and living from a place of presence, compassion, and inner peace.
Ultimately, spiritual awakening is the realization that the ultimate pursuit of all desires is the pursuit of inner peace and happiness, found within the recognition of our inherent oneness.
It is the recognition that you are not the body nor the mind phenomena. That you are consciousness, you are the absolute reality. When one realizes this, what is there left to do?
"In a true awakening, it is realized very clearly that even the awakening itself is not personal. It is a universal spirit or universal consciousness that wakes up to itself."
Post-awakening refers to the period and experiences following a spiritual awakening or realization.
However, the journey doesn’t end with awakening; it often marks the beginning of a deeper, ongoing process of integration and embodiment.
1. Integration of Realization
2. Stabilization of Awareness
3. Challenges and Difficulties
4. Living in Non-Dual Awareness
5. Continued Practice and Growth
6. Service and Contribution
Be Patient with Yourself: Integration is a gradual process. Be gentle and patient as you navigate the changes and challenges.
Seek Support: Connect with others who have undergone similar experiences. Spiritual communities, teachers, or mentors can provide valuable support and guidance.
Stay Grounded: Engage in activities that keep you connected to the body and the physical world, such as exercise, nature walks, or creative pursuits.
Reflect Regularly: Take time to reflect on your experiences and insights. Journaling can be a helpful tool for processing and integrating your journey.
Embrace the Ordinary: Recognize the sacredness in everyday life. Post-awakening is not about transcending the ordinary but seeing the extraordinary within it.
To learn more, here is a “Post Awakening” playlist of videos on You Tube.
"With awakening there also comes a total reorganization of the way we perceive life—or at least the beginning of a reorganization. This is because awakening itself, while beautiful and amazing, often brings with it a sense of disorientation. Even though you as the One have awakened, there is still your whole human structure—your body, your mind, and your personality. Awakening can often be experienced as very disorienting to this human structure."
The Dark Night of the Soul is a profound and often challenging experience that many encounter on their spiritual journey.
Rooted in Christian mysticism and famously described by St. John of the Cross, it refers to a period of intense inner turmoil, where one feels a deep sense of spiritual desolation and existential crisis.
This experience, although deeply unsettling, is seen as a necessary purification process, stripping away illusions and attachments to reveal a deeper, more authentic connection to the Divine.
In the context of non-duality and Advaita Vedanta, the Dark Night of the Soul can be understood as a crucial phase in the dissolution of the ego and the realization of the true self.
Non-duality teaches that our true nature is not separate from the ultimate reality; it is pure awareness, beyond all dualistic distinctions of self and other, good and bad, light and dark.
The Dark Night of the Soul can be seen as the ego’s resistance to this profound truth, a clinging to its illusory identity and the fear of its own dissolution.
During the Dark Night, one might feel abandoned by the very essence they seek to connect with. This can lead to a profound sense of isolation and confusion.
However, from a non-dual perspective, this perceived abandonment is actually the mind’s last struggle against the inevitable realization that there is no separate self to abandon or be abandoned. The darkness and suffering are the mind’s constructs, which begin to dissolve in the light of true awareness.
The experience of the Dark Night forces one to confront and question deeply held beliefs, attachments, and the very notion of self. It is a stripping away of the false layers that obscure the realization of non-dual awareness.
In this way, the Dark Night serves as a catalyst for a deeper awakening, leading to a more authentic understanding of one’s true nature as pure, undivided consciousness.
Emerging from the Dark Night, one may experience a profound sense of liberation and clarity. The realization dawns that the suffering endured was a result of clinging to an illusory sense of self.
In the light of non-dual understanding, one sees that there is no separate entity to suffer or be liberated; there is only the timeless, boundless awareness that we inherently are.
While a deeply challenging phase, the Dark Night of the Soul is an integral part of the journey towards realization. It is the process through which the ego’s illusions are dismantled, allowing the light of true awareness to shine through.
Through this profound transformation, one moves closer to the ultimate understanding of non-duality, where the distinction between self and other dissolves, revealing the unity of all existence.
"The dark night of the soul is when you have lost the flavor of life but have not yet gained the fullness of divinity. So it is that we must weather that dark time, the period of transformation when what is familiar has been taken away and the new richness is not yet ours."
Surrender is a fundamental concept in many spiritual traditions, but within the context of non-duality or Advaita Vedanta, it takes on a unique and profound meaning.
Here, surrender is not about yielding in the conventional sense. It is about releasing the illusion of separateness and recognizing the underlying oneness of all existence.
The True Nature of Surrender
In non-duality, surrender means letting go of the ego—the false sense of an individual, separate self—and realizing our true nature as infinite, boundless awareness. This is not an act of defeat, but a profound awakening to the reality that we are one with the universe.
Letting Go of Control: In daily life, we often seek control over outcomes, situations, and even people. Non-dual teachings invite us to see that this sense of control is an illusion constructed by the ego. True surrender is trusting the flow of life and recognizing that everything unfolds according to a deeper, universal intelligence.
Dissolving the Ego: The ego, the sense of an individual “I” that believes it is separate from the rest of existence, is seen as the root of suffering in non-duality. Surrendering the ego means realizing that our true identity is not the body or mind, but the infinite awareness in which all experiences arise and fade away.
Embracing What Is: Surrender also involves embracing the present moment fully, without resistance. This doesn’t mean passive resignation but active, open acceptance of life as it is—free from judgment, preference, or aversion. By aligning ourselves with the flow of existence, we come into harmony with life itself.
Trust and Faith: Surrender requires cultivating trust in the universe and faith in the wisdom of non-dual teachings. This is not blind belief, but a deep intuitive recognition of the interconnectedness and intelligence that permeates all existence.
Freedom from Suffering: Through surrender, the egoic patterns that generate suffering—such as attachment, aversion, and fear—dissolve. As we awaken to our true nature, we find freedom from these limiting tendencies and experience a deep inner peace.
Harmonious Living: As we surrender to the flow of life, we begin to live more harmoniously with ourselves and others. This alignment with the universal flow fosters compassion, empathy, and a deep sense of connection with all beings.
Surrender is ultimately about letting go of the ego’s illusion of control and aligning with the natural flow of existence. Through practices like self-inquiry, meditation, and mindfulness, we can cultivate this deep surrender. The result is profound inner peace, freedom from suffering, and a harmonious way of living.
In the deepest sense, there is nothing to surrender because you are already whole, complete, and free. All that is required is the realization of this truth.
To learn more, here is a “Surrender and Letting Go” playlist of videos on You Tube.
"Surrender is the simple but profound wisdom of yielding to rather than opposing the flow of life."
Forgiveness is more than just an emotional act of reconciliation; in the context of non-duality or Advaita Vedanta, it carries a deeper, transformative significance. It is not merely about releasing grudges or healing personal wounds, but about recognizing the fundamental oneness that permeates all existence.
The Benefits of Forgiveness
Emotional Freedom: Letting go of resentment frees you from emotional turmoil and allows for a more peaceful and harmonious life.
Enhanced Relationships: Understanding and compassion replace judgment and anger, improving your relationships with others.
Spiritual Growth: Forgiveness is a powerful spiritual practice that deepens your realization of non-dual truth. It brings you closer to the recognition of your true self, which is boundless and free.
Healing: Forgiveness can lead to holistic healing, addressing not just emotional and mental health, but also contributing to physical well-being by reducing stress and promoting a sense of overall harmony.
Forgiveness is not simply an emotional or psychological act—it is a profound spiritual practice. By seeing the oneness of all existence, we realize that there is no “other” to forgive. Every person, every situation, is a reflection of the one Self, manifesting in diverse forms.
To truly embody this understanding, we must see the oneness in everything. Bless everyone, love everyone, and condemn no one—not even yourself. Forgive yourself for past actions, both those you’ve done and those you’ve failed to do.
Likewise, forgive others for their omissions and transgressions. In doing so, you release the burden of separation and align with the infinite compassion of the Self.
"Human conduct is ever unreliable until man is anchored in the Divine. Everything in the future will improve if you are making a spiritual effort now."
Spiritual bypassing refers to the tendency to use spiritual concepts or practices to avoid addressing unresolved emotional issues, psychological wounds, and developmental challenges.
In the context of non-duality, this phenomenon can be especially problematic because the deep teachings of oneness and the transcendence of the ego may be misused to avoid essential healing and integration work.
How Spiritual Bypassing Manifests in Non-Duality
Denial of Personal Issues: Some may use non-dual teachings to dismiss or downplay their personal struggles, saying things like, “There is no self, so my problems are not real.” While non-duality reveals the ultimate unreality of the ego, it does not negate the importance of addressing psychological experiences in the relative world.
Avoidance of Emotions: Non-dual teachings emphasize the transcendence of mind and emotions to recognize our true nature. However, this can lead some to avoid fully feeling or processing emotions, seeing them as illusory and unimportant. In reality, these emotions often point to areas that need understanding and healing.
Premature Claims of Enlightenment: Some might claim to have transcended their ego or reached enlightenment without fully addressing inner work. This can result in arrogance, spiritual superiority, and a lack of empathy for others’ challenges, which contradicts the compassionate essence of true non-dual realization.
Disconnection from the Body: Non-dual teachings focus on the formless, which may lead to neglect of the physical body and its needs. A healthy balance requires recognizing that the body is an essential part of our human experience and a valuable vehicle for expressing and integrating spiritual realization.
Overcoming Spiritual Bypassing in Non-Duality
Integration of Teachings and Personal Work: True non-dual realization involves integrating spiritual insights with personal psychological work. Recognizing the illusory nature of the ego does not mean ignoring its manifestations. Instead, we can bring the light of awareness to our psychological issues, allowing for healing and integration.
Embracing Emotions: Emotions should not be dismissed as mere illusions. Instead, they can be seen as valuable indicators of unresolved issues that need attention. By fully feeling and understanding our emotions, we can transcend them in a healthy and integrated way.
Authentic Humility: Genuine non-dual realization is accompanied by humility and compassion. Recognizing that we are all on a journey and that enlightenment is not a personal achievement helps to maintain an attitude of empathy and understanding towards others.
Embodiment Practices: To avoid disconnection from the body, incorporating practices that honor and nurture the body is essential. Yoga, mindful movement, and other somatic practices can help integrate the body with the insights of non-dual teachings.
Seeking Guidance: Working with experienced teachers or therapists who understand both non-dual teachings and psychological processes can provide valuable support. They can help navigate the pitfalls of spiritual bypassing and ensure a balanced approach to spiritual growth.
Traditionally, it was considered necessary to spend a considerable amount of time purifying the mind and the body before a student was sufficiently mature to return to their true nature.
Some people felt that it was an avoidance of dealing with one’s emotional trauma, limitations, psychological difficulties and so on. And so the term “spiritual bypassing” was coined as a kind of derogatory term.
However, what is often not understood is that, at least in this approach, once we have recognized the inherently peaceful nature of our being, we go back and realign our experience, thoughts, feelings, actions and relationships with this understanding.
So, it’s true in this approach we bypass the content of experience on the way back to our true nature, but we deal with it after the recognition of our true nature.
"There is no coming to consciousness without pain. People will do anything, no matter how absurd, in order to avoid facing their own Soul. One does not become enlightened by imagining figures of light, but by making the darkness conscious."
By addressing samskaras and vasanas through mindful living and spiritual practices, one can break free from the binding effects of karma and move toward liberation.
"The meaning of Karma is in the intention. The intention behind action is what matters. Those who are motivated only by desire for the fruits of action are miserable, for they are constantly anxious about the results of what they do."
Solitude refers to the state of being alone, creating an environment ripe for introspection and self-discovery.
Solitude as a Gateway to Self-Realization
Deep Self-Inquiry: Solitude provides the ideal setting for self-inquiry, a core practice in non-dual traditions. Without the noise of daily life, one can focus on existential questions such as “Who am I?” or “What is the source of my awareness?” This inner exploration becomes more focused and clear in the stillness, allowing one to dive deeper into the nature of the self.
Witnessing the Mind: In solitude, it becomes easier to observe the mind’s activities without getting entangled in them. This witnessing allows for the recognition that thoughts and emotions are transient phenomena arising in the field of awareness. Understanding this helps in disentangling from the identification with the mind and moving closer to the realization of the true self.
Experiencing Stillness: Non-duality emphasizes the importance of stillness and silence as the background of all experiences. In solitude, one can immerse in this stillness, realizing that it is ever-present and not dependent on external circumstances. This stillness is the essence of our true nature, and recognizing it brings us closer to non-dual awareness.
Dissolution of the Ego: Solitude can facilitate the dissolution of the ego, which thrives on external validation and social interactions. When alone, the ego’s usual sources of reinforcement are absent, allowing for a deeper investigation into its nature. This can lead to the recognition of the ego as a mere construct, furthering the non-dual realization that our true self is beyond the egoic mind.
Solitude offers a sacred space for deepening the understanding of non-duality. It allows for introspection, self-inquiry, and the dissolution of the ego, bringing one closer to the recognition of oneness.
In this harmonious integration, solitude transforms from a practice of aloneness into a gateway to realizing the interconnectedness of all beings. Through this balance, we live a life that reflects the profound truth of non-duality, grounded in stillness yet open to compassionate, engaged action.
"All of humanity's problems stem from man's inability to sit quietly in a room alone."
It’s not about escaping the world but about seeing through the illusion of separateness, recognizing that the true self is not confined to the body-mind complex but is the universal consciousness permeating all existence.
Unity Consciousness: In the state of transcendence, one experiences unity consciousness, where the distinction between self and other dissolves. This realization brings about a profound sense of peace, compassion, and interconnectedness.
Living Non-Duality: Transcendence is not just an abstract concept but a lived reality. It involves integrating the understanding of non-duality into daily life, seeing the divine in all beings and situations. This integration transforms the way one relates to the world, promoting a life of harmony, empathy, and love.
Transcending Dualities
The Illusion of the Ego
In truth, there is no ego to get rid of—no separate self to transcend. How freeing it is to realize that the notion of “something wrong” or “something lacking” doesn’t exist. In this moment, if you can grasp that none of these constructs are real, a shift in perception occurs.
Absolute Reality
You are not the ego, the mind, or even the body—you are absolute reality itself. By simply hearing this, something within you should awaken.
Realizing that nothing needs to be removed or fixed allows you to live fully in the light of awareness. This transcendent state reveals life as a harmonious whole, filled with peace, love, and infinite possibility.
When we get into spiritual work, we work on removing the ego. Transcending the unconscious mind. This is a mistake. Why are we trying to get rid of something that never existed?
How wonderful it would be for you if you could just realize this moment that none of these things exist. You are absolute reality, absolute reality! That’s it! Just by hearing this something should happen.
"You have invested everything in one basket, self-realization, and, in the end, suddenly you discover that there is no self to discover, no self to realize – and you say to yourself "What the hell have I been doing all my life?!" That blasts you."
True self-realization is not found through mental effort, endless thinking, or the pursuit of knowledge. It is discovered in the profound stillness of silence. To experience the Self, you must simply sit in silence—frequently and with full presence.
It is in the silence where the power lies. The highest teaching in the world is silence. There is nothing higher than this.
"Dive into your heart center. Sit in the silence. Desire self-realization with all your heart, with all your mind, and all your soul. Everything will take care of itself."
The mind constantly seeks a purpose, but when the mind quiets, the need for purpose dissolves.
Embracing the concept that life has no inherent purpose challenges our ego and deeply ingrained beliefs. However, it also opens the door to a more liberated and authentic way of living.
By releasing the need for a fixed purpose, we can fully embrace the present moment, explore our true nature, and find profound fulfillment in simply being alive.
The idea that life has no inherent purpose can be a challenging and even disconcerting concept for many to grasp, as it confronts deeply ingrained beliefs and perspectives.
"The meaning of life is just to be alive. It is so plain and so obvious and so simple. And yet, everybody rushes around in a great panic as if it were necessary to achieve something beyond themselves."
The “Arishadvarga”: are the six inner enemies of the mind—desire, anger, greed, attachment, pride, and jealousy—which are seen as obstacles on the path to self-realization, enlightenment, or spiritual liberation.
These enemies are:
By recognizing and actively working to overcome the six inner enemies of the mind, you can make meaningful progress on the path to self-realization and spiritual liberation.
Transcending these inner obstacles will lead to inner peace, mental clarity, and a harmonious relationship with yourself and the world around you.
"The main thing is to be free of negative emotions – desire, fear, etc., the 'six enemies' of the mind. Once the mind is free of them, the rest will come easily."
Honesty is the cornerstone of self-reflection. You must honestly examine your life, beliefs, and feelings about the world, the universe, and yourself. Be willing to look at every aspect of yourself without pretense or avoidance.
By leaving external concerns alone, by turning within instead of without, and seeing what blocks you from your true Self, you begin to unravel these layers.
Try to be still, mentally and emotionally. Avoid heated debates, unnecessary gossip, and the mind’s compulsion to prove, to act, to control. Discourage the mind by witnessing its actions rather than participating in them.
By simply observing your mind and learning to be by yourself, you will see that things take care of themselves.
See what is stopping you — is it your emotions, your anger, your reactions to life? Surrender these to the Self. Every day, let go a little more of everything you’ve been carrying. Empty yourself out just like a garbage pail being cleared of waste. The more you surrender, the clearer you become.
Fundamental Questions for Self-Inquiry
No matter how successful or famous, everything acquired will one day be gone. These questions aren’t merely philosophical; they stir us toward understanding the impermanence of worldly achievements and the importance of deeper truths.
The question then arises: Who am I? Who am I really? What is this all about?
This doesn’t mean retreating from life or abandoning your responsibilities. It means giving up the attachment to outcomes, mentally letting go.
The Inner Obstacles to Self-Realization
Desire: Excessive longing for sensory pleasures or material possessions clouds the mind and creates an endless cycle of craving.
Anger: Uncontrolled anger disrupts inner peace and distorts perception, harming relationships and draining emotional energy.
Greed: The constant hunger for more — whether it’s wealth, power, or recognition — pulls you away from contentment and genuine connection with others.
Attachment: Clinging to people, possessions, or specific outcomes leads to suffering when those attachments are threatened or lost.
Pride: Excessive pride blocks the capacity for learning, humility, and personal growth. It creates an illusion of superiority, distancing you from the truth.
Jealousy: Comparing yourself to others and feeling resentment toward their success erodes self-worth and poisons relationships.
These tendencies all arise from the mind’s identification with the world and the ego’s desire to control and manipulate reality to fit its expectations.
Surrendering the Mind’s Attachments
Everything happens in the mind. First, you mentally give up the beliefs and ideas you’ve been carrying, the reactions to life and people, places, or things. Then you let go of the very concept of giving up. Everything must go, even the mind that wants to surrender must be surrendered.
When everything is surrendered — your thoughts, emotions, beliefs, and even the idea of self — You realize your true nature: Sat-Chit-Ananda (Existence, Consciousness, Bliss).
Living in Awareness
Begin to see that the people and conditions you dislike are just reflections of yourself.
There is only one self. Whatever transpires, you are ultimately interacting with yourself. Realize this unity, and understand that whatever you do for or to others, you are doing to yourself.
So of course your nature becomes kind, gentle, peaceful. For you realize that whatever you’re doing to somebody else you’re doing to yourself. Whatever you think of other people, you think of yourself. There is only one Self and you are that. When you begin to understand this you will begin to treat everybody as you treat yourself. As you want to be treated yourself. You will show mercy, forgiveness, when you’re watching yourself.
You have to be totally honest with yourself. Do not fool yourself. Look at yourself and see the way you are. See what you do all day long, the way you react to things. Do not ignore these things. Do not imagine they do not exist.
What do you do with your life all day long? What do you think about? Are you in control of your emotions, of your thoughts? Are you still allowing the world to show you what is going on? Are you still allowing the world to show you what is right or wrong, what is good or bad and you react to this? Are you still trying to change the world from bad to good?
What do I really want out of life? What am I really trying to acquire? Do I really want to become free or am I really looking for name and fame? What am I really looking for? Am I doing this practice because I want to have millions of dollars? Have abundant health? Have recognition?
“What kind of a being am I?” “Am I a terrible person always getting into fights with people, arguments, always confusion? Trying to straighten people out? Trying to straighten things out? What am I doing in this world? What’s my real focus? Did I come here to change anything? To prove something? Show people how good I am? Why have I come into this world?” “What am I really doing here? For what purpose have I come?” “Where did I come from? Where was I before I was born? Where do I go after so called death? What is the purpose of life?”
If you have a bad temper, if you become angry a lot, if you’re always trying to change things so they’ll go your way, those are the very things that are holding you back. Those are the very things you have to get rid of. You have to get to the place where you have no opinions for or against.
Remember you’re asking yourself all of this.
There are valid answers to these questions but you have to discover them for yourself. All of the answers are within you. They can only be answered by you. Everything that you’ve ever been looking for is within you.
Here is a list of life’s questions you might ask yourself:
"The greatest teacher is direct experience, not intellectual knowledge."
You don’t have to make a quiet mind a prerequisite for finding peace. A quiet mind is a consequence of resting in being, but it’s not a prerequisite for it. Don’t worry about stilling your mind. Anything we do must be founded on the assumption that what we are aiming for is not present now.
"Calmness is the criterion of spiritual progress. Plunge the purified mind into the Heart. Then the work is over."