Introduction

The age-old quest for self-discovery has been a cornerstone in philosophical thought, religious exploration, and even modern psychology. However, understanding the Inner ‘I’—the essence, presence, and awareness within our being—is more than just a scholarly endeavor; it is a transformative experience that shapes our perception of reality. This blog delves into the practice of daily self-search and self-inquiry by focusing on essential questions that help us unravel the depths of our inner selves.

Who is this ‘I’ that knows?

The first step towards understanding the Inner ‘I’ is to ask, “Who is this ‘I’ that knows?” This question leads us to contemplate the observer within us—the one that witnesses thoughts, feelings, and experiences without being entangled in them.

Action Step:

Allocate a few minutes each day to sit quietly and observe your thoughts. Who is it that is doing the observing? What qualities does this observer possess?

What is experiencing this ‘I’?

Beyond the observer, there’s the experience of being the observer. What medium or space allows this ‘I’ to exist? This question deepens our understanding of the stage upon which the ‘I’ performs—the context within which the observer exists.

Action Step:

During your daily mindfulness or meditation practice, shift your focus from the observed (thoughts, sensations) to the experience of observing. What does it feel like to be in that state?

What is the nature of this ‘I’?

The ‘I’ is often mistaken for the ego, the personality, or the sum total of our life experiences. However, its nature is more profound and more fundamental. It is the essence of our being, the core that remains constant amid the ever-changing circumstances of life.

Action Step:

Engage in a written dialogue with yourself, asking and answering questions about what you believe the ‘I’ to be. Challenge your own assumptions and dig deeper.

What is the nature of the experience of ‘I’?

Understanding the nature of the experience of ‘I’ means looking into how the ‘I’ interacts with its surroundings. Is the ‘I’ affected by experiences or is it aloof? Does it change when circumstances change?

Action Step:

Reflect on pivotal moments in your life. How did your inner ‘I’ experience those situations? Was there a change in the core ‘I’, or just a change in perspective or emotional state?

Experience the awareness witnessing the ‘I am aware’?

The ultimate layer of self-inquiry involves the awareness of awareness itself. This is often termed as meta-awareness. It’s the consciousness that not only experiences but understands the act of experiencing.

Action Step:

Try to step back mentally to witness your own awareness. This is challenging but illuminating. Who or what is aware of the ‘I am aware’? Can you sense a background consciousness illuminating both the ‘I’ and its experiences?

Additional Thoughts

Deepening the knowing of the Inner ‘I’ is an ongoing journey, one that requires daily commitment, honest inquiry, and a willingness to dive into the unknown. The questions explored here serve as guideposts on this expedition, encouraging us to peel away the layers that obscure our essence, presence, and awareness. Through consistent self-search and introspection, we come closer to understanding the intricate, profound nature of our being. And in that understanding, we often find a peace and stillness that transcends the turbulence of daily life.

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