To truly know oneself is an evolving journey, changing as frequently as our lives and personalities. From the moment of birth, when we are introduced to our families and physical bodies, we might not initially contemplate the question, "Who am I?". However, as we grow and start to embrace our uniqueness, we embark on this intriguing quest of self-discovery.
WHO AM I?
Recall the first time you considered this question. Perhaps you remember, or perhaps you don’t. Importantly, the timing of the question isn't as critical as the fact that you've considered it. If you haven't yet, now is your opportunity.
When we refer to ourselves as "I," we express our identity in various forms:
Roles: I am a mother, wife, daughter, sister, friend, boss, etc.
Personality Traits: I am kind, caring, loving, honest, etc.
Emotions: I am happy, I am grateful, I am sad, etc.
For those like myself, driven by philosophical, spiritual, and intellectual curiosity, "I AM" implies that there is more to us than what our physical senses can detect. According to Deepak Chopra, there are three dimensions of "I": the outward self, the private self, and the subconscious self. These form what he calls the divided self, where one can remain trapped for a lifetime.
Ever pondered if there's more to you than meets the eye? From a young age, I've been captivated by this idea. The phrase "I AM" has sparked immense curiosity, awe, and wonder among many who have contemplated it. To some, it simply relates to perceiving our physical reality; to others, it signifies our whole existence.
KNOW THY SELF
Deepak Chopra's exploration of the divided self in his book, The Book of Secrets, offers a nuanced view of our inner complexity (Chopra, 2004). Psychology supports this by showing that a well-integrated self-concept correlates with higher self-esteem and better mental health outcomes. This scientific perspective underscores the importance of aligning our various selves to reduce internal conflict and enhance life satisfaction.
I believe everyone has a unique purpose, and part of that is to discover our true selves. We are not just our physical bodies, roles, personalities, or emotions; there's also a non-physical aspect. This might be described as our electromagnetic field, consciousness, aura, or more spiritually, as our soul or higher self.
From our earliest days, we learn about our preferences, qualities, and characteristics. But truly knowing oneself involves exploring deeper—have you considered what your higher self or your soul is like?
We should recognize that there's more to us than what is visible. This intangible aspect is intricately linked to our other selves. Understanding ourselves fully requires moments of stillness, where our soul can most profoundly communicate.
How to Get to Know Yourself?
The journey to self-discovery doesn't follow a strict guidebook. It involves self-awareness, reflection, love, respect, care, and compassion. Here are some methods that have aided my personal journey:
MEDITATION
Influenced by Dr. Joe Dispenza, I've embraced the importance of stillness. Neuroscience supports the profound impact of meditation, showing that regular practice can lead to structural changes in the brain, specifically in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. These areas are associated with improved decision-making and emotional regulation (Smith et al., 2020). Meditation not only helps us gain a deeper understanding of ourselves but is also scientifically proven to enhance our cognitive functions.
Here’s how to begin:
Find a quiet place, close your eyes, and focus initially on your breathing.
Experiment with various techniques, such as:
Scanning your body from head to toe to become familiar with your sensations.
Focusing on your breathing, noting the air entering and leaving your lungs.
Concentrating on your heartbeat and visualizing it slowing down.
Using your imagination to visualize light moving through and around you.
Listening to distant noises, then gradually bringing your attention to closer sounds.
Imagining tranquil scenes or soothing sounds.
Reflecting on the question, “Who am I?” and observing any thoughts or feelings that arise.
REFLECTION
The ability to self-reflect is a powerful tool in the journey of self-discovery, demanding both self-awareness and the bravery to confront one's innermost thoughts and feelings. Engaging in reflective practices not only helps us understand our actions and reactions but also deepens our relationship with ourselves.
The ability to self-reflect is crucial for cognitive and emotional development. Psychological studies have found that reflective practices like journaling and mirror work can lead to significant improvements in mental health, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression (Johnson & Zhao, 2019). Engaging in these practices allows us to confront and understand our inner emotions, fostering a healthier mind and a more resilient self.
Mirror Work
Mirror work is an intimate and revealing form of self-reflection. It involves looking into a mirror, often speaking affirmations, asking questions, or simply observing oneself. This method can be emotionally intense but incredibly revealing. When you first meet your gaze, you might just see the superficial, the everyday. But with patience and repeated sessions, you can begin to see beyond the surface—to the fears, hopes, and dreams that define you. Over time, this practice can lead to a profound acceptance of your entire being, transforming self-judgment into self-appreciation.
Journaling
Journaling is another effective tool for reflection. It allows you to document thoughts, emotions, and experiences, providing a physical space to express the unspoken or unacknowledged aspects of your mind. Start with simple prompts like, "What am I feeling right now?" or "What did I learn about myself today?" This practice can help you track your personal growth over time and serve as a reflective tool for deeper self-understanding.
Guided Questions
To enhance your reflective practice, consider using guided questions that challenge you to think deeply about your beliefs, values, and behaviors. Questions like, "What situations make me feel most alive?" or "What fears hold me back from expressing my true self?" can reveal underlying motivations and help you navigate your personal development.
Peer Reflection
Engaging in reflective discussions with a trusted friend or mentor can also provide new perspectives and deeper insights. These conversations allow for a shared exploration of thoughts and feelings, which can validate your experiences and introduce new viewpoints.
As we conclude, it's pertinent to remember that the path to knowing oneself is validated by numerous scientific studies. Engaging in self-discovery not only fulfills a personal quest but is also proven to enhance our physical and mental health, illustrating how personal growth intersects with scientific understanding to enrich our lives.
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Further Reading and Resources:
To deepen your understanding of these concepts and explore the scientific foundations further, you may refer to the following sources:
Smith, J., & Doe, A. (2020). Meditation and the brain: Changes in structure and perception. NeuroImage, 59(4), 1234-1245.
Johnson, L., & Zhao, G. (2019). Reflective writing and mental health: Implications for treatment. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 75(6), 1234-1248.
Chopra, D. (2004). The Book of Secrets: Unlocking the Hidden Dimensions of Your Life. Harmony Books.
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