Beyond Diaries

In the frenetic pace of modern life, mindfulness has become a beacon for those seeking inner peace and clarity. Rooted in ancient wisdom, mindfulness transcends the boundaries of culture and time, offering profound insights into the nature of our existence. While contemporary practices often emphasize techniques like meditation and breath awareness, the teachings of Advaita Vedanta add a deeper dimension to mindfulness, guiding us towards understanding our true nature. For the past few months I have been deeply involved in the teachings of vedanta, and especially advaita vedanta. This blog is an attempt to share a wee bit of wisdom I gained from its teachings with hope of it being useful to anyone who is seeking spiritual liberation and mindfulness.

The Essence of Advaita Vedanta

Advaita Vedanta, one of the profound schools of Indian philosophy, asserts the non-dual nature of reality. It teaches that the individual self (“Atman”) and the universal consciousness (“Brahman”) are one and the same. This realization is not an intellectual exercise but an experiential truth that liberates us from the cycle of suffering.

A core issue is misidentification. We see ourselves as limited beings—defined by body, mind, and circumstances—instead of recognizing our infinite and eternal essence. This ignorance (“avidya”) gives rise to stress, anxiety, and dissatisfaction, which mindfulness, as a practice and philosophy, can address.

Mindfulness as a Path to Self-Realization

In Advaita Vedanta, mindfulness is not merely about focusing on the present moment but about seeing through the illusion of separation. Our thoughts and emotions are transient phenomena appearing in the unchanging awareness that we truly are. By observing these passing experiences without attachment, we begin to discern the deeper self beyond them.

For instance, when practicing mindfulness meditation, instead of identifying with thoughts like “I am anxious” or “I am happy,” we can witness them as “Anxiety is arising” or “Happiness is arising.” This subtle shift fosters disidentification from the mind and anchors us in our true nature—pure awareness.

Practical Insights from Advaita Vedanta

Advaita Vedanta offers several practical insights into integrating its teachings into daily mindfulness:

1. Shift from Doer to Observer: Step back from the sense of being the “doer” of actions. When engaged in mindfulness, observe actions and experiences unfolding naturally without a rigid sense of “I” controlling them. This practice helps reduce stress and fosters equanimity.
2. Neti, Neti (“Not This, Not This”): A central teaching of Advaita Vedanta is to negate identification with all that we are not. When a thought arises, instead of clinging to it, remind yourself: “I am not this thought.” Gradually, this helps reveal the unchanging awareness that remains.
3. Surrender to the Present: Mindfulness often emphasizes non-resistance to the present moment. Advaita Vedanta highlights that the present moment is a reflection of Brahman. Accepting it fully allows us to transcend the dualities of pleasure and pain.

The Connection Between Mindfulness and Liberation

Mindfulness, when practiced with the depth of Advaita Vedanta, becomes a tool for liberation (“moksha”). By continually shifting our identification from the ephemeral to the eternal, we dissolve the ego and awaken to our true nature. Liberation is not about achieving something new but about uncovering what has always been—our infinite, blissful self.

Practical Steps to Begin

1. Daily Reflection: Dedicate a few minutes daily to reflect on the teachings of Advaita Vedanta. Contemplate the question: “Who am I beyond the body and mind?”
2. Mindful Observation: In daily activities, practice observing thoughts, emotions, and sensations without labeling or judging them. Notice how they arise and pass away in your awareness.
3. Meditation on Awareness: Spend time in meditation focusing on the awareness within which all experiences arise. Guided meditations based on this principle can be particularly helpful.
4. Integration into Life: Bring this understanding into interactions. When faced with challenges, remember the teaching: “I am the witness, not the doer.”

Mindfulness, enriched by the wisdom of Advaita Vedanta, offers a path not just to temporary peace but to lasting freedom. This philosophy teaches that mindfulness is more than a practice—it is a gateway to realizing the oneness of existence and the boundless nature of our true self. In embracing this journey, we find that the stillness we seek has always been within us, waiting to be uncovered.