myownbuddha

Every year, June 21st is celebrated as International Yoga Day , a tribute to one of India’s greatest gifts to the world—Yoga. Beyond the colourful displays of asanas across parks and global landmarks lies a deeper story—of a tradition rooted in spiritual pursuit, inner discipline, and profound philosophy. 🧘‍♂️ What is Yoga? The word "Yoga" is derived from the Sanskrit root “Yuj” , meaning “to unite.” Yoga signifies the union of individual consciousness with the universal consciousness. Although often identified with physical postures, Yoga is a holistic spiritual discipline combining asana (postures), pranayama (breath control), meditation, ethics , and ultimately liberation (moksha) . 📜 Historical Roots of Yoga in India Yoga is not a modern wellness trend. Its origins date back over 5,000 years to the Indus Valley Civilization , where ancient seals depict yogic figures in meditative poses. Textual references to Yoga appear in the Rig Veda , and its philosophies ...

The mind is one of the most powerful and mysterious instruments available to human beings. In both the Western scientific tradition and the ancient Indian philosophical schools, the mind is seen not just as a seat of thoughts, but as a field of energy, emotion, and creative potential. This article explores the power of the subconscious mind —its role in shaping our lives, influencing our habits, and how it can be trained through positivity, creativity, and connection with nature. 1. Conscious, Subconscious, and Unconscious Mind: Western Perspective According to Sigmund Freud and later thinkers in psychology and cognitive science, the mind is divided into three levels: Conscious Mind : This is the active, thinking part of our awareness. It deals with logic, reasoning, and daily decisions. Subconscious Mind : This part stores memories, beliefs, habits, and emotions that influence our conscious actions, often without us realizing it. Unconscious Mind : A deeper realm wher...

The False Illusion of 'I': Transcending the Observer and Experiencer Throughout human history, thinkers, mystics, and philosophers have pondered the nature of selfhood. Who or what is the "I" that observes, thinks, and experiences? Is there truly an observer distinct from the observed, or is this duality a mere illusion? This article delves into these profound questions, examining the nature of the self, the illusion of separation, and the path to transcending this false division. The Illusion of the Observer One of the fundamental misconceptions of human consciousness is the belief in an independent observer. The mind assumes that there is a fixed "I" that perceives reality, separate from thoughts, emotions, and experiences. This belief is deeply ingrained, leading to the assumption that the observer exists as an entity distinct from what is observed. However, if we examine this assumption closely, we see that the observer is not separate—it arises in the v...

Through the faculty of consciousness, the "Being" interacts with the outer world. While individual beings are bound by time, the eternal "Being" remains untouched, existing beyond the limitations of time. This timeless essence is unchanging and eternal. Consciousness exists on different levels and gains its characteristics through actions—whether physical or mental. These actions create mental volitions, shaping the journey of the "Being" as it traverses from one body to another. These volitions determine whether the "Being" remains bound in the cycle of life or attains liberation, or "moksha." But why do mental volitions arise in the first place? The root lies in the actions of past lives. Time and action form a cyclical chain that perpetuates itself. The body operates in reaction to external stimuli, and every stimulus generates a sensation. When we react to these sensations, "samskaras" (mental impressions) are formed. Thes...

  The Utilitarian View of Being Human and the Feeling of Absurd Franz Kafka’s The Metamorphosis is one of the most powerful allegories in literature, revealing the stark realities of human existence. Through the surreal transformation of Gregor Samsa into a giant insect, Kafka explores the fragility of identity, the burdens of family and societal expectations, and the existential absurdity of life. This novella invites reflection on the utilitarian view of being human , wherein an individual's worth is determined by their ability to serve others. Simultaneously, the story illuminates the feeling of absurdity —the dissonance between humanity’s search for meaning and the chaotic, indifferent reality of life. In this article, we will explore how Kafka’s novella encapsulates these two philosophical dimensions and what it teaches us about the human condition. Gregor Samsa as a Victim of Utilitarianism From the very beginning of The Metamorphosis , it is clear that Gregor Samsa’s existe...

Western Philosophy: Spinoza's Perspective Western philosopher and idealist Benedict Spinoza posited that everything in the world operates according to immutable laws. To truly understand God, one must comprehend these laws. This perspective is indeed profound. Spinoza believed that God is manifested in Nature, and to grasp the reality of God, one must become closer to Nature and understand the laws governing it. For instance, if you wish to understand God, try comprehending the Law of Gravity. According to Spinoza, God is expressed through such laws, as seen in the phenomenon that whatever is thrown upwards will inevitably come down. The more you understand these laws, the closer you get to God. Buddhism: The Absence of a Creator God In Buddhism, there is no concept of a soul or an omnipotent creator like God. Consciousness arises based on past karmas and mental volitions. A person can escape the cycle of birth and death by attaining Nirvana or enlightenment. Ignorance is the prima...

Meditation is a practice that has been used for centuries across various cultures and traditions to enhance consciousness and achieve a state of heightened awareness. From a philosophical and psychological perspective, meditation helps to improve consciousness through several mechanisms: 1. Mindfulness and Present-Moment Awareness Focus on the Present : Meditation, especially mindfulness meditation, encourages focusing on the present moment. This practice helps individuals become more aware of their thoughts, emotions, and sensations as they occur, rather than being lost in past or future concerns. Reduction of Distractions : By training the mind to stay focused on the present, meditation reduces the impact of distracting thoughts and external stimuli, leading to a clearer, more concentrated state of consciousness. 2. Neuroplasticity and Brain Function Changes in Brain Structure : Research has shown that regular meditation can lead to changes in brain structure and function. For exampl...