Embracing Ego
Yoga has indeed opened my mind to many new concepts, one of which I have been exploring for quite some time is the concept of Ego. It is fascinating to delve into the nature of the ego, understanding its role in our lives and how it influences our thoughts, actions, and relationships.
It is true that many teachings advocate for the release of the ego, urging individuals to find a balance between acknowledging the ego's presence and connecting with their authentic self. By recognising the ego without becoming entangled in its illusions, one can navigate the intricate duality of human existence. The ego, often shaped by societal constructs, coexists alongside our essence - the pure reflection of the soul.
Embracing the Light and Darkness Within
I have also come to understand that I could not be my light without my darkness. I like to identify my Ego with the darkness, and my true soul with my light. Once you embrace these opposite strengths you will discover deeper truths about yourself.
For many years I lived by hiding my true self in order to fit in, to belong to the group or just to be a part of something in the moment. However, I wasn’t aware at the time how hard I was trying to be what everybody else had expected. It is a common experience for individuals to conceal their true selves in a bid to assimilate, belong, or adhere to societal expectations. This act of conforming often leads one to unknowingly latch onto their ego, forsaking their essence in the process. Humans are unique, complex and above all, wild beings. We are frequently urged by the constructs of society to suppress their authenticity, inadvertently relinquishing the enchantment that resides within. This suppression can make one perceive their true nature as a burden rather than a gift. The pressure to conform to societal norms often results in the erosion of one's genuine identity, leaving them feeling disconnected and adrift in a world that can often feel unfamiliar and isolating.
Embracing Our Individuality
From a young age, we are subtly conditioned to conform, to adhere to societal norms, and to shy away from embracing the unfamiliar. Anything outside the predefined boundaries is deemed unconventional or unacceptable. We are encouraged to blend in, to avoid drawing attention to ourselves, and to suppress our unique essence.
However, it is essential to recognise the beauty in our individuality and the power it holds. Standing out from the crowd should not be seen as a flaw but as a celebration of our authenticity. By daring to challenge the status quo, we showcase our strength and resilience.
Being labelled as a misfit, rebel, or misunderstood should not deter us from pursuing our true passions and desires. These words should instead be embraced as symbols of our courage to defy the norm and chart our paths.
I have always felt different, and at one point in my life I started to listen to myself. I started to observe with a pleasant look how all my decisions were not the ones expected or perhaps rather the least imagined by the people around me. My life in general has been a roller coaster of emotions, experiences, and above all, big lessons.
Slowly, without conscious effort, I found myself gradually detaching from my ego, not in rejection but in acceptance. Striving to strike a delicate balance between acknowledging my ego and allowing my authentic self to emerge. This journey towards embracing both our strengths and weaknesses leads us to a serene inner peace and genuine authenticity. It unveils a more profound and intimate comprehension of oneself.
When starting to become aware of the duality within oneself, internal conflicts inevitably arise, leading to a constant battle with one's own self and self-inflicted punishment. Recognizing these opposing forces is key to understanding these internal struggles. It is natural for humans to experience internal conflicts, fear, and worry. Through introspection and self-study, individuals can begin the journey towards finding inner balance. Compassion and empathy play crucial roles in embarking on this path.
Embrace Your EGO and True Essence
Do not punish yourself or push yourself towards finding the balance between your EGO and your true essence. Embrace your EGO; you can learn a lot from it, but do not forget your true essence. It’s there waiting to pop out and make you happier. Finding balance does not mean to let go of one or the other but try to integrate them together. Accept every stage in your life, your happiness and your sadness, your best and your worst. Embrace your wholeness.
The beauty of the human duality:
Ego says: Once everything falls into place, I will feel peace.
Essence says: Find your peace, and then everything will fall into place.
In the eternal dance between the ego and essence lies the secret of human existence. The ego, driven by desires and external validations, constantly seeks a future state where all conditions align perfectly to grant it peace. However, the essence, the inner voice of wisdom and truth, understands that true peace can only be found within.
When we learn to quiet the clamour of the ego, and instead listen to the whispers of our essence, we begin to realise that peace is not a destination to reach but a state of being to cultivate. It is in this state of inner peace that the fragmented pieces of our lives start to harmonise and fall into place effortlessly.
Therefore, the key lies in turning inwards, in finding that well of peace that resides inside each of us. By nurturing this inner peace, we create a powerful magnet that attracts serenity, joy, and alignment into every aspect of our external reality. Let us remember that the essence knows the way; all we need to do is listen, trust, and allow everything to fall into place.
One thing that taught me ego is to become curious and playfull. I have learned to play around with my sequences and try new things without sticking to my usal practice all the time. I loved this post from Sviatlana (Unayoga.studio) with 20 creative variations of Downward facing dog.
https://una.yoga/2024/07/18/20-creative-variations-of-downward-facing-dog/