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Many people search for greater meaning beyond the realities of everyday life. They yearn for a sense of purpose and direction that transcends material things or external achievements. They look for ways to access a higher state of consciousness.
According to the organization Mindowl, a higher state of consciousness refers to a mental state characterized by heightened awareness and expanded perception. It means seeing beyond selfishness, reactivity, and constant craving.
A state of higher consciousness consists of a non-judgemental awareness of the present moment. Boundaries between the self and the world begin to dissolve, and you experience a profound sense of unity and harmony with all existence. You can tap into a greater sense of peace and calm that transcends the hustle and bustle of everyday life with these four techniques.
Spend time in nature
Reaching a higher state of consciousness could just mean stepping outside your door and spending more time in nature. According to The University of Minnesota, nature has a profound ability to soothe, heal, and elevate your consciousness.
Set aside time weekly to connect with the natural world, whether taking a walk in the park, a weekend camping trip, tending to your garden, or simply looking outside your window. Enjoy the benefits of listening to nature. Quiet the mind. Feel a deeper sense of peace and oneness with all living beings. Allow yourself to connect with the rhythms of the natural world.
Meditate
The chaos of busy lives often clutters the mind with thoughts, worries, and distractions. According to the Art of Living, meditation gives you a chance to break away from all this chatter and transcend into a higher state of stillness, peace, and clarity.
There are many types of meditation techniques for all skill levels including yoga, tai chi, mandalas, mindful breathing, and chanting. Choose the one that works for you. Put aside time to meditate regularly. Allow yourself to relax in the present moment. Through consistent meditation practice, you can nurture a sense of inner calm and higher state of consciousness.
Practice mindful living
Mindfulness doesn’t have to stop once you leave the yoga mat. You can turn everyday tasks into opportunities to feel connected to the present moment.
According to a blog on Headspace, you can transform simple activities like eating a meal into a meditation practice. Tune into your senses and allow yourself to fully appreciate each bite. Take your time. Turn off the TV and set aside distractions.
Even the most ordinary activities, like doing the laundry or washing the dishes, offer a chance to reach a higher state of mind simply by bringing mindful awareness to the present moment. Focus your full attention on the activity at hand. Notice the sensations, sounds, and sights around you, and savor each moment as it unfolds.
Learn to let go
You can reach a higher state of consciousness by learning to let go, according to the blog Original Buddhas. Attachment to material possessions, relationships, and outcomes pulls the mind in all sorts of directions. And, the more you cling to these attachments, the more you trap yourself in a cycle of longing and dissatisfaction.
Learn to release your grip on external objects and outcomes. Easier said than done, right? Non-attachment begins with awareness. According to the Himalayan Institute, the practice of pratyahara, or sense withdrawal, helps to tame your senses and mind.
Observe your thoughts as you go through your day. Take notice when you cling to objects and expectations in your daily life. Recognize these feelings and try to release them. Create space between yourself and attachments. In these moments, convince the mind and senses to let go. This creates space for a deeper sense of inner peace and contentment.
Remember that reaching new states of consciousness doesn’t happen overnight. Have patience with yourself. Start small by setting just a little bit of time to each of these habits. With consistency, you will find these small changes add up to help you reach a higher state of mind.
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