THE INNER SELF

The "inner self" is often described as the truest part of you, the core of who you are beyond external influences, roles, and labels. It’s the part that feels timeless, stable, and authentic, existing beneath the surface of thoughts, emotions, and daily experiences.

Here are a few ways to think about the inner self:

1. Pure Awareness or Consciousness: The inner self is often seen as the "observer" within us—the quiet awareness that watches our thoughts, emotions, and actions without judging or getting attached. When you experience joy, pain, or any other feeling, there’s a part of you that notices and observes these experiences without being swept away. This is your inner awareness, sometimes referred to in spiritual traditions as the soul or true self.

2. Beyond Thoughts and Emotions: While thoughts and emotions are part of our everyday experience, they’re temporary and constantly changing. Your inner self, however, is steady and unaffected by external circumstances or internal fluctuations. It’s the part of you that feels "like you" regardless of what happens in your life.

3. Essence of Authenticity: Your inner self is deeply personal and true to you. It’s the part that resonates with your values, purpose, and core sense of being. When people say they are being “authentic” or acting in line with their true nature, they’re often talking about aligning with their inner self rather than acting according to outside expectations or pressures.

4. Connection with All: Many people find that as they delve into their inner self, they feel a sense of interconnectedness with others and the universe. This interconnectedness often brings about compassion, empathy, and a desire to live in harmony with the world.

Connecting with your inner self takes time and intention. Practices like meditation, journaling, deep self-reflection, or time in nature can help you connect with this deeper part of yourself. The journey is less about seeking something new and more about uncovering what’s already within.