Consciousness – The true nature of awareness

Consciousness – The true nature of awareness

To awaken does not merely mean opening ones’s eyes, but also beginning to observe one’s own thoughts.

Every morning we wake up, work, interact with others, laugh, get angry and go back to sleep.But have we ever asked ourselves who experiences all of this? Who is aware of our thoughts? Who experiences happiness, sorrow, love and fear? The answer is consciousness.

What is consciousness?

Simply put, consciousness is the ability to experience one’s own existence and the world around us.

As you read this article, you are not merely looking at words, you are grasping their meaning.Thoughts are arising in your mind, this very experience is consciousness.

If a person is asleep or unconscious, they can not experience the outside world. However upon waking they begin to experience things again. Thus consciousness is linked to experience.

The relationship between the brain and consciousness.

According to modern science, consciousness arises from the complex processes of the brain.

Billions of nurons within the brain constantly exchange information. This process gives rise to thoughts, memories, emotions and decisions.

Does every living being possess consciousness?

There is no doubt, that humans possess consciousness, but do animals possess it as well?? Many studies indicate that dolphins, elephants, crows, monkeys and certain other animals are capable of self-recognition, learning and expressing emotions.

How can one develop consciousness?

Increasing consciousness means living a more aware life.

Certain simple habits can help with this :

• Sit quietly for a while everyday.
• Observe your thoughts.
• Try to understand each emotion instead of reacting to it immediately
• Read books and ask new questions.
• Spend time in nature.
• Remain curious about yourself.
• Stay away from your mobile phone for some time each day.

Why consciousness is important?

Consciousness does not merely keep us alive, it teaches us to live wisely.

It makes us calmer, more sensitive, and more responsible.

When we understand our own minds, we begin to understand others better as well.

This improves relationship and brings balance to life.