We are human beings, spiritual beings. We are more than just human bodies. While our physical bodies are real and tangible, our spiritual energy is not as tangible and so very often we ignore it. Our bodies exist because of this energy, similar to how cell phones exist because of electromagnetic waves. We feel the phone in our hand, but we don't feel those waves. If electromagnetic waves disappeared, we wouldn't be able to use cell phones.
When we are born into this world, we are in perfect harmony with our "spiritual self". But as we age, we learn to behave not as we feel, but as is considered "right" in the world around us; this is how we acquire a secondary, "materialistic self". This "materialistic self" is so well adapted to life in society that we quickly become accustomed to using it more and more. Over time, we begin to fully identify with this "materialistic self". We end up forgetting who we really are. When we are told that we are spiritual beings, we doubt. Our "materialistic self" requires proof. All human beings are spiritual beings. It is not to say that some are more spiritual and some are less, however, most of us have forgotten this.
When we are led by our "materialistic self," it is more beneficial and safer for our careers and the accumulation of any other material wealth. Perhaps there is only one good beyond the reach of this "materialistic self" - to be happy. Please don't confuse happiness with pleasure.
Pleasure is a short-term emotion. When I buy a new dress or eat a brownie, I experience pleasure. Happiness is an unusually pleasant, strong spiritual experience, usually lasting a long time; it is a state of mind. We mistakenly believe that we can substitute lack of happiness for pleasure. As a result of this delusion, it seems to us that the more pleasures we can have, the closer we will get to our happiness. In reality, the opposite is true: the more we experience pleasure, the more we move away from the possibility of experiencing true happiness. Plus, in order to experience any physical pleasure, our body must seek out and expend certain hormones. This explains the feeling of "emptiness" that we always feel after having great pleasures, such as watching several movies, overeating, listening to too many jokes, excessive sex, playing on the computer for long periods of time, etc. A person who seeks to accumulate pleasures in his life, as a result of some period filled with many pleasures, inevitably becomes satiated and falls into deep depression. It is not without reason that all the great teachers of the world have preached all kinds of abstinence.
When our thoughts and actions are governed by the "materialistic self," we seek pleasure everywhere and in everything. We become addicted to pleasure. Therefore, to free ourselves from addiction, we must make every effort to hear the voice of our true "spiritual self." To feel true happiness. How do you do that? There are several ways. None of them guarantees a complete spiritual awakening. But at any rate, you will get in touch with your "real self".
Spend a few days in nature. Away from the material world, your "materialistic self" will immediately disappear. The energies of the nature around you will interact with your human energies and you will feel truly happy. Everyone in my family felt an unprecedented surge of happiness when we crossed the U.S. from south to north along the Pacific Crest in 1998 for six months, backpacking over 3,000 miles.
Sit for seven or more days on water fasting. Starving yourself will boost your energy tremendously. You will feel a stronger connection to your "spiritual self". If you don't know how to fast, don't do it unless you read books on fasting or talk to an expert.
Start talking sincerely with others about your feelings or thoughts. It's not easy at first, t.к. most people have never said a sincere word in their entire lives. We confuse "sincerity" with "negativity." Speaking sincerely does not mean speaking negatively about yourself. You are simply sharing your innermost feelings and desires. Choose a close friend who won't judge you for your words and feelings. When you begin to speak sincerely, your "inner self" will begin to speak. And you yourself will be amazed at the power and wisdom of your own words. But don't confuse sincere conversation with friendly chatter.
Socialize with animals. Dogs, horses, cats, goats, deer, etc.д. doesn't care how you dress, how big your house is, or if you have debts. But they can sense if you are at peace or upset. They appeal to your humanity and help you feel in touch with your "inner self".
Play with young children. Their souls have not yet had time to shut down, and they have not yet become complete materialists. With them, you don't have to hide behind your "materialistic self".
If you meet someone who is already in full merger with their "spiritual self," simply talking to that person will help you get in touch with your "inner self." And similarly if you are constantly in the company of materialists, then your soul closes down.
When we are guided by our spiritual self, we feel whole and happy. Then we don't care what the neighbors say about us or whether we have chocolate cake or not. When we are happy, we focus on the things that are most important to us. Food is a very small part of our lives. Therefore, I believe it is necessary to put our lives in the hands of our "higher self"..
