The Upanishads are ancient Hindu spiritual texts that form the final part of the Vedas and are considered the foundation of Hindu philosophy. They delve into profound spiritual and philosophical concepts such as the nature of ultimate reality (Brahman), the relationship between the individual self (Atman) and the supreme self (Brahman), and the path to spiritual liberation (Moksha). In this blog post, we will explore the essence of the Upanishads and provide a brief introduction to each of the ten major Upanishads.

1. Isha Upanishad:

The Isha Upanishad focuses on the relationship between the individual soul (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman). It teaches that the universe is a manifestation of Brahman and that everything in the world is pervaded by the divine. The Upanishad emphasizes the importance of detachment from worldly possessions and encourages spiritual seekers to practice renunciation and self-discipline to attain spiritual realization.

2. Kena Upanishad:

The Kena Upanishad explores the nature of Brahman and the limitations of human knowledge. It asserts that the ultimate reality cannot be comprehended through the senses or the intellect, but can only be realized through direct spiritual experience. The Upanishad encourages spiritual seekers to question and inquire into the nature of reality and emphasizes the importance of humility and devotion to the divine.

3. Katha Upanishad:

The Katha Upanishad presents a dialogue between a young boy named Nachiketa and the god of death, Yama. The Upanishad addresses fundamental questions about life, death, and the nature of the soul. It teaches that the path to spiritual liberation lies in overcoming ignorance and realizing the eternal, unchanging nature of the Atman.

4. Prashna Upanishad:

The Prashna Upanishad is a series of six questions posed by six seekers to the sage Pippalada. The Upanishad discusses various aspects of creation, the nature of the soul, and the path to spiritual realization. It emphasizes the importance of meditation, self-discipline, and the acquisition of spiritual knowledge in the quest for enlightenment.

5. Mundaka Upanishad:

The Mundaka Upanishad distinguishes between two types of knowledge: lower knowledge, which pertains to the material world, and higher knowledge, which leads to the realization of Brahman. The Upanishad asserts that only by acquiring higher knowledge can one attain spiritual liberation. It also highlights the importance of leading a life of truth, simplicity, and self-discipline.

6. Mandukya Upanishad:

The Mandukya Upanishad is one of the shortest but most profound Upanishads. It explores the nature of consciousness and the relationship between the individual self (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman). The Upanishad introduces the concept of the four states of consciousness – waking, dreaming, deep sleep, and the fourth state (Turiya), which transcends the other three and represents the ultimate state of spiritual realization.

7. Aitareya Upanishad:

The Aitareya Upanishad focuses on the creation of the universe and the nature of the Atman. It presents the story of creation as a manifestation of Brahman and emphasizes that everything in the universe is a part of the divine. The Upanishad teaches that by realizing the true nature of the Atman, one can attain spiritual liberation and union with Brahman.

8. Taittiriya Upanishad:

The Taittiriya Upanishad is divided into three sections: Siksha Valli, Brahmananda Valli, and Bhrigu Valli. The Upanishad covers a wide range of topics, including the nature of reality, the importance of spiritual knowledge, and the path to self-realization. It emphasizes the significance of discipline, devotion, and ethical conduct in spiritual life and presents a detailed analysis of the five sheaths (koshas) that cover the Atman.

9. Chandogya Upanishad:

The Chandogya Upanishad is one of the largest and oldest Upanishads. It contains a series of dialogues and stories that explore the nature of reality, the path to spiritual liberation, and the relationship between the individual self (Atman) and the supreme self (Brahman). The Upanishad teaches that the essence of all beings is the same and that by realizing this unity, one can attain spiritual enlightenment.

10. Brihadaranyaka Upanishad:

The Brihadaranyaka Upanishad is another extensive and ancient Upanishad. It discusses various topics, including creation, the nature of the Atman, the concept of karma, and the process of rebirth. The Upanishad also contains several famous philosophical dialogues, such as the conversation between Yajnavalkya and his wife Maitreyi, which explore the nature of the self and the ultimate reality.

Guilt is a universal emotion that can hold us hostage in our own minds, preventing us from embracing life and realizing our true nature. In this blog post, we will explore the nature of guilt, its origins, and how to transcend it to experience genuine freedom.

Guilt arises when we perceive ourselves as having violated our own or society’s moral code, leading to a sense of regret and shame. It is often a deeply ingrained emotion that can linger within our psyche, influencing our thoughts and actions in subtle ways. Guilt is a product of the mind, and it arises from the conditioning we receive from the society we live in. It is born out of a conflict between what we have been taught to be right and what our inner truth tells us. When we fail to live up to our own expectations or those of others, guilt emerges as a means of self-punishment.

Guilt is a cunning trap created by the ego to maintain control over our lives. The ego thrives on guilt, as it perpetuates the illusion of separateness and feeds the idea that we are fundamentally flawed. Guilt is a tool that keeps us locked in a cycle of self-judgment, preventing us from discovering the divine essence within.

The Origins of Guilt

Guilt originates from the conditioning we receive throughout our lives. As we grow up, we internalize the values, beliefs, and moral codes of our families, cultures, and societies. This conditioning forms the basis of our guilt. The seeds of guilt are sown in childhood when we are taught to obey and conform. As we mature, we continue to absorb the beliefs and values of our surroundings, constantly measuring ourselves against these standards. When we fall short, guilt ensues.

Guilt is a byproduct of the mind’s attempt to control and manipulate. We are conditioned to believe that our worth is determined by our actions and achievements, causing us to judge ourselves and others relentlessly. Guilt arises when we buy into this illusion and allow our minds to dictate our self-worth.

To transcend guilt, we must first recognize its illusory nature and then dissolve the egoic structures that give rise to it. The first step is to observe the mind without judgment or resistance. By becoming aware of our thoughts and emotions, we can begin to see guilt for what it is – a creation of our own conditioning. As we become increasingly conscious of the patterns that perpetuate guilt, we can begin to break free from its grip. Transcending guilt involves embracing our true nature, which is pure, divine, and free from judgment. To do this, we must let go of the ego and its constant striving for validation. This requires a radical shift in perspective – from one of self-judgment to self-love, and from separateness to oneness.

Practices to Dissolve Guilt

Meditation, self-inquiry, and mindfulness are powerful tools that can help us release guilt and experience inner freedom. Through meditation, we can cultivate a state of silent observation, allowing us to witness the arising and dissolving of guilt without getting caught in its grasp. Self-inquiry, the process of questioning our beliefs and assumptions, can help us dismantle the structures that perpetuate guilt. By dissolving guilt, we can awaken to the divine essence within and realize that we are not separate, flawed beings, but rather, expressions of the infinite consciousness that pervades all of existence. In this realization, we find true freedom and the capacity to live a life of joy, love, and boundless creativity.

Acquiring knowledge in any field requires time. Our actions are primarily based on knowledge and time, both of which are incomplete and limited. As a result, strife and conflict inevitably arise in our relationships and interactions with others.

Is there an action possible not coming out of time and Knowledge?

While acknowledging that knowledge is necessary for acquiring language and technical skills, let’s explore the possibility of a different kind of action in the psychological realm. Psychologically, we build images and symbols about ourselves and others, which become the basis for our self-centered actions. Our self-centered knowledge is essentially selfish and leads to actions that can be harmful, violent, and isolating and most of the times conflicting. Most of us are deeply rooted in our self-centeredness and egotism, which creates a wall around us, preventing genuine connection and understanding. As long as we act from this self-centered state, conflict is inevitable. Our concern should be to eliminate conflict not only at the national, economic, and social levels but also in terms of religion, beliefs, superstitions, and rituals. The divisive element in our minds, which fuels conflict, will persist as long as our actions are self-centered.

Let us understand self-centered state or actions in bit more details: The self-centered state is a product of our accumulated experiences, knowledge, and conditioning, which gives rise to the illusion of a separate self or ego. The self-centered state is characterized by a focus on the “I,” the “me,” and the “mine.” It is the source of our desires, ambitions, fears, and attachments. When we act from this state, our actions are driven by the need to protect, enhance, or fulfill our ego, often at the expense of others or our own well-being. This leads to conflict, competition, and isolation, as we become entrenched in our desires and fears, unable to recognize the interconnectedness of all things.

Following aspects can be considered to understand self-centered actions:

1. Ego-driven motivations: Our actions often arise from a desire to assert our identity, gain recognition, or fulfill our ambitions. These ego-driven motivations can manifest in various forms, such as seeking power, status, or material possessions.

2. Attachment and aversion: Self-centered actions can also stem from our attachments and aversions, which arise from the belief that we can find lasting happiness or security in external circumstances. We may cling to relationships, possessions, or ideas, believing that they define our worth or happiness, while rejecting or avoiding situations that threaten our sense of self.

3. Fear and insecurity: Self-centered actions are often driven by fear and insecurity, as we seek to protect ourselves from perceived threats or uncertainties. This can result in defensive or aggressive behaviors, as we attempt to defend our ego or assert control over our environment.

4. Limited perspective: When we are caught in a self-centered state, our perspective becomes narrow and limited, as we view the world through the lens of our own desires and fears. This can prevent us from seeing the bigger picture, understanding the needs of others, or recognizing the interdependent nature of life.

To move beyond self-centered actions and the self-centered state, we must first recognize the limitations and suffering that they create. Through self-awareness and introspection, we can begin to see the patterns and habits that reinforce our self-centeredness and the illusion of a separate self.

By cultivating a deeper sense of connection, empathy, and compassion, we can begin to loosen the grip of our ego and open ourselves to a new way of being and acting in the world. This involves embracing the principles of non-attachment, impermanence, and interconnectedness, as well as engaging in practices such as meditation, mindfulness, and self-inquiry, which can help us dismantle the self-centered state and foster a greater sense of harmony and wholeness within ourselves and our relationships.

Recognize that this is not a process that can be achieved through mere willpower or determination. It requires deep self-awareness, introspection, and a fundamental shift in our relationship with ourselves, others, and the world around us.

1. Observing the self: Begin by observing your thoughts, emotions, and actions without judgment or analysis. Pay attention to the patterns and habits that reinforce your self-centeredness and the illusion of a separate self. This non-judgmental observation allows you to gain insight into the workings of your mind and understand the roots of your self-centered state.

2. Focus on the present moment: focusing your attention on the present moment without getting lost in thoughts of the past or the future. By anchoring your awareness in the present, you can start to loosen the grip of time and its limitations on your actions and decisions.

3. Understanding the nature of thought: Recognize that thoughts are transient and impermanent, arising and passing away in the field of consciousness. Do not identify with your thoughts or allow them to define you. As you gain a deeper understanding of the nature of thought, you can begin to disentangle yourself from the self-centered state.

4. Embracing impermanence: Acknowledge the impermanent nature of life and all phenomena. Accepting impermanence allows you to let go of your attachments and aversions, which are rooted in the self-centered state and perpetuate the illusion of a separate self.

5. Cultivating compassion and empathy: Develop a sense of compassion and empathy for yourself and others, recognizing the interconnectedness of all beings. By understanding the suffering that arises from the self-centered state, you can extend your compassion to others and begin to dissolve the barriers that separate you.

6. Engaging in self-inquiry: Explore the nature of the self through self-inquiry, asking questions such as “Who am I?” or “What is the nature of the self?” This process can help you gain a deeper understanding of the self-centered state and its limitations, leading to a profound shift in your relationship with yourself and the world.

7. Experience timeless awareness in the present moment.

The Absolute, often referred to as the Ultimate Reality, the Divine, or the Source, is a fundamental concept that represents the transcendent, unchanging, and ineffable essence that underlies all existence. It is beyond time, space, and causation, and it cannot be defined or limited by any conceptual framework. The Absolute is the ultimate truth, the ground of being, and the source of all creation.

Manifestation, on the other hand, refers to the process by which the Absolute brings forth the world of appearances or the manifest universe. This process involves the unfolding of the inherent potentialities within the Absolute, resulting in the diverse forms, phenomena, and experiences that constitute our reality. Manifestation can be understood as the dynamic interplay between the unmanifest and the manifest, revealing the richness, complexity, and beauty of existence.

The relationship between the Absolute and Manifestation is one of unity and interdependence. While the Absolute is the unchanging essence that underlies all things, Manifestation is the ever-changing expression of that essence. The two concepts are intimately connected, with the Absolute serving as both the source and the ground of all that exists.

In many spiritual and philosophical traditions, the ultimate goal is to recognize the unity between the Absolute and Manifestation, transcending the illusion of separation and realizing the true nature of reality. This realization often involves a process of inner transformation, as we learn to see beyond the superficial appearances of the world and embrace the underlying unity that connects all things.

Understanding the concepts of the Absolute and Manifestation has several practical implications for our lives:

1. Cultivating Spiritual Awareness: Recognizing the unity between the Absolute and Manifestation can inspire us to develop a deeper spiritual awareness, seeking to understand the ultimate truth beyond the realm of appearances.
2. Embracing the Mystery: Accepting the ineffable nature of the Absolute can help us cultivate a sense of awe, wonder, and humility, encouraging us to embrace the mystery of existence and remain open to new insights and experiences.
3. Living in Harmony: By acknowledging the interconnectedness of all things, we can strive to live in harmony with ourselves, others, and the world around us, fostering compassion, empathy, and a commitment to the well-being of all beings.
4. Inner Transformation: The journey toward realizing the unity between the Absolute and Manifestation often involves a process of inner transformation, as we learn to let go of our attachments, fears, and illusions, and awaken to our true nature as expressions of the Divine.

The universe is vast, with its scale far beyond the human mind’s ability to fully comprehend. As we observe the cosmos, we begin to realize the seemingly infinite expanse of space, filled with countless stars, galaxies, and celestial bodies. This vastness not only inspires wonder and awe but also invites us to reflect upon our place within this grand cosmic order.

Our minds create constructs and limitations that can distort our understanding of the vastness of the cosmos. By transcending these mental barriers and embracing a state of pure awareness, we can experience the universe in its true, boundless form.

By acknowledging the vastness of the universe and developing self-awareness, we can experience several profound shifts in our lives:

1. Humility: Recognizing the immensity of the cosmos can evoke a sense of humility, allowing us to approach life with an open mind and a willingness to learn from our experiences.
2. Unity: Understanding our interconnectedness with the universe can foster a sense of unity with all beings, promoting empathy, compassion, and a desire to live harmoniously with others and the natural world.
3. Inner Peace: As we develop self-awareness and embrace the vastness of the universe, we can cultivate inner peace, free from the constraints of our conditioned thoughts and beliefs.
4. Transcendence: By transcending the limitations of our minds and experiencing the universe in its true form, we can awaken to our true spiritual nature and discover a sense of oneness with the cosmos.
5. Impermanence: The vastness of the universe also serves as a reminder of the impermanent nature of all things. Stars are born and die, galaxies collide and merge, and celestial bodies are in constant motion. By embracing the impermanence of the universe, we can learn to appreciate the beauty of each moment and let go of our attachment to material possessions, relationships, and even our own lives.
6. The Present Moment: The importance of being fully present in each moment, as it is the only moment in which we can truly experience the vastness of the universe. By letting go of our attachment to the past and future, we can cultivate a deep sense of peace and tranquility, allowing us to fully appreciate the beauty and wonder of the cosmos.
7. Non-duality: Non-duality, which refers to the underlying unity of all things in the universe. By recognizing the interconnectedness and non-duality of all phenomena, we can transcend the illusion of separateness and experience a profound sense of oneness with the universe.

The mind possesses incredible power that often goes untapped due to our lack of understanding and focus. He emphasized that by cultivating the right mental habits and harnessing the mind’s powers, we can overcome obstacles, achieve our goals, and experience deep spiritual growth.

Key Principles for Unlocking the Powers of the Mind

1. Concentration: Vivekananda considered concentration to be the cornerstone of mental power. By training our minds to focus intensely on a single task or thought, we can improve our mental clarity, problem-solving abilities, and productivity. Regular practice of meditation and mindfulness techniques can help enhance concentration and unlock the mind’s potential.
2. Positive Thinking: Swami Vivekananda stressed the importance of cultivating positive thoughts and beliefs, as they greatly influence our actions, attitudes, and overall well-being. By consciously replacing negative thought patterns with positive ones, we can foster an optimistic mindset that empowers us to face challenges and achieve our goals.
3. Self-Control: Mastering the art of self-control is another essential aspect of harnessing the mind’s powers. By learning to regulate our emotions, desires, and impulses, we develop greater mental resilience and the ability to make wise choices, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
4. Visualization: Vivekananda believed in the power of visualization as a means to manifest our desires and aspirations. By vividly imagining the realization of our goals and the feelings associated with their achievement, we can strengthen our determination and increase the likelihood of success.
5. Inner Exploration: Swami Vivekananda encouraged individuals to explore the depths of their minds through introspection, meditation, and self-inquiry. By gaining a deeper understanding of our thoughts, emotions, and beliefs, we can uncover hidden strengths and talents, leading to personal growth and self-realization.

Work is an essential aspect of human life, playing a significant role in shaping our character and contributing to our spiritual growth. The emphasis is on importance of understanding the true nature of work and approaching it with the right attitude.

The secret to work lies in its detachment. Work should be done selflessly, not driven by the desire for rewards or recognition but instead focusing on the intrinsic value and impact of the work itself. By adopting this attitude, one can elevate their work to a spiritual level, transforming it into a means of personal growth and inner fulfilment.

Principles for Transforming Work into a Spiritual Practice:

1. Detachment: To work without attachment to the fruits of their labor. By focusing on the task at hand and not being swayed by the desire for personal gain, we can cultivate a sense of detachment that helps us maintain inner peace and equanimity, regardless of the outcome of our efforts.
2. Selflessness: Another essential aspect of work, is selflessness. To work for the greater good and the welfare of others, rather than solely for personal gratification. When we dedicate our work to a higher purpose, it becomes a means for spiritual growth and self-transformation.
3. Excellence: Excellence in work is vital for personal and spiritual development. By striving to give our best in everything we do and continuously improving our skills, we not only contribute positively to the world but also cultivate discipline, perseverance, and determination – essential qualities for spiritual growth.
4. Unity: The emphasis is on interconnectedness of all beings and urged individuals to view their work as part of a larger whole. By recognizing that our actions impact others, we can develop a sense of unity and responsibility, fostering compassion and empathy in our work and daily lives.

Emotion is a complex phenomenon that is at the heart of our human experience. It arises from a variety of sources, both external and internal. Externally, we experience emotions in response to our interactions with the world around us, such as in our relationships with others, our work, and our daily activities. Internally, emotions are generated by our thoughts, beliefs, and memories, and are shaped by our conditioning and past experiences. At its core, emotion is a physiological response that involves changes in our body, including our heart rate, breathing, and hormone levels. These physiological changes are closely linked to our mental and emotional states, and can be observed and felt in a variety of ways.

Truth is a fundamental aspect of human existence that transcends all cultural, social, and psychological conditioning. Truth is not something that can be attained through the accumulation of knowledge or experience, but rather is a state of being that arises when one is free from all forms of conditioning, beliefs, and expectations. There are 2 types of Truths that we’re aware of: Absolute Truth and Relative Truth

Relative truth is what we generally consider as “truth” in our everyday lives, such as facts, opinions, beliefs, and cultural norms. It is subjective and context-dependent, and can vary from person to person and from culture to culture. For example, what is considered as good or bad, right or wrong, true or false in one culture or religion may not be the same in another.

Absolute truth, on the other hand, is universal and timeless. It is not dependent on any particular culture, religion, or belief system. Absolute truth is not something that can be conceptualized or verbalized, but is a direct experience of reality that arises when one is free from all forms of conditioning and is in a state of pure awareness.

Sometimes we also get confused with the terminology “fact”. Fact refers to something that is verifiable and can be objectively observed, such as the laws of nature, scientific experiments, or historical events. Truth, on the other hand, refers to a direct experience of reality that transcends all facts and beliefs.

In relative truth we live in duality. I would say that the differentiation between right and wrong, good and bad, pure and impure, materialistic and non-materialistic, limit and limitless, form and no form, is a construct of the human mind. These dualities are created by our conditioned thinking and our attachment to concepts and beliefs.

In reality, there is no absolute right or wrong, good or bad, pure or impure, materialistic or non-materialistic, limit or limitless, form or no form. These are all relative concepts that vary from person to person and from culture to culture.

To truly understand and experience the nature of things, we need to go beyond the limitations of our conditioned thinking and our attachment to dualities. We need to free our minds from the constant chatter of thoughts and concepts, and enter into a state of awareness where there is no division between self and other, subject and object.

This state of awareness, also known as the state of Shoonya or emptiness, is not something that can be achieved through any method or technique. It is not something that can be attained by following a particular belief system or philosophy. Rather, it is a state of being that can only be realized through direct experience and self-inquiry.

To enter into the state of Shoonya, we need to observe our thoughts and emotions without judgment or attachment. We need to be aware of our inner world and our outer world, without getting caught up in our conditioned thinking and beliefs. We need to be open and receptive to the present moment, without trying to control or manipulate it.

Through this process of self-inquiry and self-awareness, we can gradually let go of our attachment to dualities and enter into a state of pure awareness, where there is no division between self and other, good and bad, pure and impure, materialistic and non-materialistic, limit and limitless, form and no form. In this state of pure awareness, we can experience the ultimate reality, which is beyond all concepts and dualities, and is the source of all truth and beauty.

Expectations, in its essence, is the belief that something should happen or be a certain way. It can relate to ourselves, others, or even situations.

Expectations can be both positive and negative. Positive expectations can motivate us to achieve our goals and fulfill our potential. Negative expectations, on the other hand, can lead to disappointment, frustration, and even anger.

The problem with expectations is that they are often unrealistic and can be based on our biases, beliefs, and desires. When our expectations are not met, we can become upset, disillusioned, or even depressed. We may blame ourselves or others for the failure to meet our expectations. The truth is, expectations are a form of control. We try to control the outcome of situations and people based on our beliefs and desires. However, life is unpredictable, and it is impossible to control everything. When we try to control everything, we create stress and tension in our lives.

t is important to recognize that expectations are a natural part of human experience. However, it is equally important to be aware of our expectations and manage them appropriately. We should strive to have realistic expectations and be open to the possibility that things may not always turn out as we hoped.

One way to manage expectations is to focus on the present moment. Instead of worrying about the future or dwelling on the past, we should focus on what we can control in the present moment. We should appreciate what we have, be grateful for the blessings in our lives, and live in the present.

Another way to manage expectations is to cultivate an attitude of acceptance. We should accept that life is unpredictable, and not everything will turn out as we planned. By accepting this fact, we can let go of our need to control everything and enjoy life as it is.

Expectations are something that we all have, and yet they often go unnoticed in our daily lives. We may have expectations about everything, from our relationships to our jobs, our health to our wealth, and even about ourselves. Expectations are like seeds that we plant in our minds, and they grow into powerful forces that can either empower or limit us.

At the heart of all expectations is the desire for a particular outcome. We want things to turn out in a certain way, and we believe that our expectations will help us achieve that. However, this is where the problem lies. When we have expectations, we are setting ourselves up for disappointment. We are creating a gap between what we want and what is actually happening, and this gap can be a source of frustration, anger, and sadness.

Moreover, expectations can also limit our experiences. When we have expectations, we are often focused on the future, and we miss out on the present. We are so preoccupied with what we want to happen that we fail to see the beauty and richness of the moment. We are constantly looking for something better, and in doing so, we miss out on the beauty of what is already present in our lives.

It is essential to understand that expectations are not inherently good or bad. They are simply a part of human nature, and they can be a useful tool for setting goals and achieving our dreams. However, it is important to recognize when our expectations are getting in the way of our happiness and fulfillment.

One way to deal with expectations is to approach them with mindfulness. This means becoming aware of our expectations as they arise, and then observing them without judgment. When we become mindful of our expectations, we can begin to understand why we have them and whether they are serving us. We can then choose to let go of those expectations that are no longer helpful, and focus on what is truly important in our lives.

Another way to deal with expectations is to cultivate a sense of gratitude. When we are grateful for what we have, we are less focused on what we don’t have. Gratitude helps us to appreciate the present moment and to find joy in the small things in life. It also helps us to see that we already have so much, and that our expectations may be preventing us from fully appreciating what we have. Ultimately, it is our ability to let go of expectations and to embrace life as it is that will bring us true happiness and fulfillment.

Duality is the root cause of all conflict and suffering in the world. Self is an illusion and and that duality arises from the belief in a separate self. Self is a construct of the mind, created by the accumulation of past experiences, memories, and conditioning. This self is a product of the dualistic thinking that separates the individual from the rest of the world. This sense of separation was the source of all conflict and suffering.

We spend our lives chasing after pleasure and avoiding pain, seeking to protect the self and accumulate more experiences and possessions. This pursuit of pleasure and avoidance of pain creates a constant sense of anxiety and fear, as we are constantly threatened by the possibility of loss and separation. This constant striving and grasping is the root cause of all conflict, both within ourselves and in the world at large. When we see ourselves as separate from others, we inevitably come into conflict with them, as our desires and needs clash with theirs. This conflict can take many forms, from personal relationships to international conflicts and wars.

The only way to overcome this sense of separation and the conflict it creates is to transcend the self and recognize our fundamental interconnectedness with the world. This requires a radical shift in our thinking and perception, a shift away from the dualistic thinking that separates the individual from the rest of the world. The mind is conditioned by the dualistic thinking of the past, which creates a constant sense of separation and anxiety. To transcend this conditioning, we must cultivate a state of awareness and attention in the present moment. This requires a practice of self-inquiry, in which we examine our thoughts, beliefs, and perceptions, and question their validity. The practice of self-inquiry can help us see through the illusion of the self and recognize our fundamental interconnectedness with the world. This can lead to a profound sense of inner peace and freedom from the anxiety and conflict that arise from the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain.

Consciousness is not something that arises from the brain or the mind, but is a fundamental aspect of the universe itself. Consciousness is not limited to the individual self, but is a universal field of awareness that encompasses all of existence. Experience of duality arises from the limitations of the individual self and its separation from the universal consciousness. When we identify with the self, we see ourselves as separate from the rest of the world, and this creates a sense of duality and conflict.

Any attempts to transcend duality by suppressing or denying it would only lead to further conflict and suffering. Instead, a practice of radical self-inquiry, in which we confront the illusions of the self and the duality it creates head-on.

Reality is not something that can be grasped or understood through the mind, which is limited by the dualistic thinking of the past. Instead, reality can only be experienced directly, through a state of awareness and attention in the present moment. this direct experience of reality could be achieved through meditation and self-inquiry. By cultivating a state of awareness and attention in the present moment, we can begin to see through the illusions of the self and the duality it creates, and connect with the universal consciousness that underlies all of existence. Rather than relying on dogma or tradition, we should cultivate our own awareness and understanding of the nature of reality, through a practice of radical self-inquiry and direct experience.

One of the main ways that duality manifests in our lives is through the distinction between self and other. We tend to think of ourselves as separate individuals, with our own unique thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and we see the rest of the world as something external to us, with its own separate reality. This creates a sense of distance and separation between ourselves and others, and can lead to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and alienation. If we become more aware of our own thoughts, feelings, and sensations, as well as the people and objects around us. By paying attention to the present moment in this way, we can begin to see through the illusions of the self and the duality it creates, and connect with the universal consciousness that underlies all of existence.

Some of the ways that can be practiced: 1. focusing your attention on the present moment, and becoming more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and sensations. You can start by setting aside a few minutes each day to sit quietly and observe your breath. 2. Another way to cultivate awareness and attention is to pay closer attention to your senses. Notice the sensations in your body as you move through the world, the sights and sounds around you, and the smells and tastes of your environment. By becoming more attuned to your senses, you can start to see through the illusion of the self and connect more deeply with the world around you. 3. Self-inquiry involves examining your own thoughts and beliefs, and questioning the assumptions and beliefs that underlie them. For example, you might ask yourself why you believe that you are separate from the rest of the world, or why you feel the need to constantly define and protect your own identity. By becoming more aware of these assumptions and beliefs, you can start to see through the illusions of the self and connect more deeply with the universal consciousness that underlies all of existence. There’s no fixed method that will work. You may try to find out what works for you.

Ultimately, the goal is is to cultivate a state of awareness and attention in the present moment, and to see through the illusions of the self and the duality it creates. By doing so, we can connect more deeply with the universal consciousness that underlies all of existence, and experience a sense of inner peace and freedom from the anxiety and conflict that arise from the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain.