‘I Consciousness’ is not merely an experience of Transcendental Consciousness that is fleeting or momentary. Instead, it represents a more stable, natural state of “being,” transcending the limitations of the false “i” or ego and living from the essence of the True I, the True Being, or the True Self. This state is characterized by a continuous awareness that underlies the ordinary I-thoughts and emotions, providing a foundation for a life rooted in deeper truth and peace.

1. Moving Beyond Transcendence to Stability

• Transcendental Consciousness: In many meditative practices, the goal is to reach a state of Transcendental Consciousness, a state where the mind transcends the activity of thoughts and experiences pure awareness. This state is marked by a sense of profound silence, inner peace, and a connection to a deeper reality beyond the changing phenomena of the mind.
• Stability in ‘I Consciousness’: ‘I Consciousness’ goes beyond just moments of transcendence. It is not about escaping the world or the thoughts temporarily but about cultivating a stable, natural state of being. This state remains constant even in the midst of activity, thoughts, and emotions. It is the ground of being from which all experiences arise, an unchanging awareness that observes and embraces all that occurs without attachment or identification.

2. Transcending the False “i” and Realizing the True I

• The False “i” or Ego: The false “i” is the ego, the sense of self that identifies with the body, mind, roles, and thoughts. It is the ‘i’ that says, “I am this” or “I am that,” always defining itself by external factors, achievements, or failures. The false “i” is the source of much suffering, as it is prone to fear, desire, attachment, and aversion.
• True I, True Being, True Self: ‘I Consciousness’ is the realization of the True I, which is beyond all labels and definitions. This True I is not confined by the ego’s limitations but is expansive, all-encompassing, and free. It is the same consciousness that is present in every sentient being, the core essence that is universal. By transcending the false “i,” we return to the state of True Being, the pure, unconditioned Self that is always at peace, whole, and complete.

3. Living from a State of Underlying Awareness

• Awareness Underlying I-Thoughts: In ‘I Consciousness,’ there is a shift from identifying with the surface-level I-thoughts to recognizing the awareness that underlies these thoughts. I-thoughts are seen as fleeting, momentary expressions of the deeper ‘I’, the True Self. This awareness is like the sky, vast and unchanging, while the I-thoughts are like clouds that come and go. The sky is unaffected by the clouds; similarly, True I remains unaffected by the transient thoughts and emotions.
• Continuous Connection to Being: In this state, there is a continuous connection to the deeper sense of being, regardless of what is happening externally. Whether engaged in work, relationships, or solitude, there is an underlying awareness that remains steady. This awareness is the Natural Self Being state, where one lives from the heart of consciousness itself, not merely the mind’s constructs.

4. The Benefits of Living from ‘I Consciousness’

• Inner Peace and Contentment: By identifying with the True I rather than the false “i”, one experiences a profound inner peace that is not dependent on external circumstances. There is a sense of contentment and fulfillment that arises from simply being, from recognizing the essence of who we are.
• Clarity and Wisdom: In ‘I Consciousness,’ the mind is not clouded by the ego’s fears and desires. There is greater clarity, insight, and wisdom in decision-making. Actions are guided by a deeper understanding and alignment with the natural flow of life.
• Compassion and Connection: Recognizing the True I in oneself naturally leads to recognizing it in others. This realization fosters compassion, empathy, and a sense of connection with all beings. There is a recognition that at the deepest level, we are all the same consciousness, sharing the same essence.
• Resilience and Equanimity: When rooted in ‘I Consciousness,’ challenges and difficulties are met with resilience. There is equanimity in facing life’s ups and downs, as the True I is not shaken by external changes. This inner stability brings a sense of strength and courage to navigate life.

5. Cultivating ‘I Consciousness’ Through Inner ‘I’ Meditation

• The Practice: By engaging in Inner ‘I’ Meditation, focusing on the mantra ‘I’ or ‘I Am’, we train the mind to turn inward and connect with the underlying awareness. This practice helps dissolve the identification with the false “i” and strengthens the experience of the True I. The repeated alignment with the ‘I’ consciousness deepens the realization that we are more than our thoughts, emotions, or physical form.
• Natural Self Being: Over time, the state of ‘I Consciousness’ becomes the natural state of being. It is not something we enter only during meditation but a continuous, lived experience. This is the essence of living in the Natural Self Being state, where one is always aware of the deeper presence that underlies all experiences.

Conclusion: Embracing the True Self

‘I Consciousness’ is the realization of our deepest nature, beyond the transient identity of the ego. It is a state of awareness that transcends the false “i” and reveals the True I, the unchanging, pure consciousness that is the essence of all existence. By living from this state, we embrace the Natural Self Being state, experiencing life with peace, clarity, and profound fulfillment. This is the journey of Inner ‘I’ Meditation, guiding us back to our true home within.

Sources: SuperAI Consciousness GPT