What does being comfortable with our inner being mean, and how can we get to that state? Delving deep into concepts from Vedic philosophy and Freudian psychoanalysis, our recent Thought Leadership session on “Seeking The Internal Coach” threw light on the journey to self-awareness and spiritual fulfillment.
To truly connect with our inner being, we must first embrace our true self. This entails plumbing the depths of our ego, which comprises four key components: the Mind, Intellect, Pure Consciousness, and Ego.
Unmasking the Ego: Decoding Your Sense of Self
In Vedic philosophy, the concept of “ego,” or “Ahamkara,” is expanded as the “sense of individuality.” It encompasses expressions such as:
- I Am Supreme
- I Alone Exist
- I Am The Doer.
They can be understood as the principle of self-awareness. To transcend the ego, we must confront these notions of individual supremacy and ownership, realizing that everything bestowed upon us is not truly ours, but rather a gift.
The Bhagavad Gita, a sacred Hindu text, introduces us to the difference between the Higher Ego (Ahamkara) and the Lower Ego (ahamkara). The Lower Ego, rooted in ignorance and attachment, fosters a sense of separateness and competition, steering us away from our true purpose. Fueled by competition, the ego whispers delusively, “I am supreme, I exist alone, and I am the sole author of my actions.”
In contrast, the Higher Ego aligns with higher consciousness and unity, motivating us to evolve and transcend our limitations.
Beyond Id, Ego, and Superego: Vedic Insights for Inner Harmony
Parallel to Vedic teachings, Freudian psychoanalysis delineates the human psyche into three agencies:
- Id
- Ego
- Super-ego
The Id represents primal desires, while the Super-ego embodies morality and conscience. The Ego serves as the mediator between these conflicting forces, striving for balance and harmony within the psyche.
In Freud’s view, a balance in the dynamic interaction of the id, ego, and superego is necessary for a healthy personality. Understanding the interplay of the ego’s three qualities – Sattva, Tamas, and Rajas – is crucial for achieving equilibrium and self-improvement. Cultivating Sattva, characterized by purity and balance, enables inner peace and clarity to flourish. Conversely, dominance of Tamas leads to inertia and negativity, while excessive Rajas manifests as restlessness and stress.
Achieving balance among these three qualities is an ongoing process that requires self-awareness, mindfulness, and consistent effort. By embracing self-reflection, engaging in meditation practices, and prioritizing personal growth, individuals can experience greater well-being, fulfilment, and fulfillment in their lives.
Ego Check: Where Does Your True Self Reside?
- In what state of ego do you aspire to operate?
- What inner shifts are necessary for us to connect with our Higher Self?
