One Fundamental Insight: The Nature of the Soul

Science posits that we are physical beings with cognitive processes, while philosophy suggests we are minds housed in bodies. Many Western religions argue that we possess souls. In contrast, Eastern philosophies, particularly Hinduism, teach that we are souls temporarily inhabiting physical forms.

According to this view, we do not simply own a soul; rather, we are the soul, and we have a body. As Sadhguru puts it, “Once you experientially know that you’re not the body and not the mind, there is no possibility of suffering for you.” The concept of “Atman,” or soul, is formless, infinite, and omnipresent—existing beyond the confines of life and death.

In this framework, life can be understood as the “Atman” animating a body for a brief period. Hindu beliefs assert that every living being yearns to reunite with the Atman, which can be interpreted as God, a higher power, or a universal consciousness. As Swami Vivekananda articulated, “The soul is beyond life and death. You were never born, and you will never die. Birth and death belong to the body only.”

Meditation serves as a gateway to realizing the “Atman,” allowing us to delve into an ocean of inner infinity.

Description: This video explores the science behind meditation, shedding light on its profound effects on the mind and body.

Before You Question the Validity of This Perspective

Spirituality is fundamentally experiential. I encourage you to meditate regularly for 30 days; the personal insights you gain will be the best proof of its value. Once a staunch skeptic, I often quoted Aristotle and Einstein, but deep meditation humbled me and revealed deeper truths.

Approach this practice with an open heart—clear your mind of doubts and preconceived notions. Worst-case scenario? You feel nothing. But in the best-case scenario, you connect with the essence of “Atman.”

Transcending Anxiety and Worries

When you access that “inner infinity,” you perceive endlessness and timelessness. Concerns about the future dissipate, and regrets about the past fade away, leaving you in a continuous flow of the present moment.

Some monks and sages can remain in deep meditative states for extended periods, known as “Samadhi” in Eastern traditions. However, even a few minutes of bliss can provide immense rewards for the average person. In our fast-paced lives, we often become anxious over trivial matters. Recognizing our fleeting existence on a cosmic scale allows us to regain perspective; we become aware of our insignificance in the grand scheme of existence.

This realization transforms our experiences: a simple cup of coffee on a fresh morning can be as delightful as a significant career advancement.

Struggling with Meditation? Here Are 7 Helpful Tips

Due to a challenging childhood, I struggled with anxiety, finding it difficult to sit in silence for even two minutes. Now, however, I easily meditate for over 30 minutes. With consistent practice, it becomes easier. Here are seven practical suggestions:

1. Create a calming meditation space. Light scented candles, play soft music, and use cushions for comfort.
2. Commit to a minimum of one minute of daily meditation. More often than not, that minute extends to ten. If it doesn’t, at least maintain the habit.
3. Choose a specific time for meditation. Morning sessions can set a positive tone for the day, while evening meditations can facilitate better sleep.
4. Pair meditation with existing habits. I meditate following my workout and a cold shower, making it easier to maintain.
5. Utilize guided meditation apps and videos. Though I no longer rely on them, they can be beneficial for beginners.
6. Have an accountability partner. My girlfriend supports my practice, and sharing my journey with others keeps me on track.
7. Consider taking a meditation course or hiring a coach. For me, participating in an advanced course was a pivotal moment in my meditation journey.

Falling in love with meditation opens the door to an internal universe as rich and expansive as the outer world.

“The inner space is nothingness, as silent and empty as the sky; it is your inner sky. Once you settle down in your inner sky, a great maturity arises in your actions, in your behavior. Then whatever you do is poetry.” — Osho