'Piece of Mind': How Each Little Thing Becomes a Tool for Inner Peace
8,654 words · 66 min readThe 'Piece of Mind' practice can transform everyday activities into moments of profound spiritual awakening and inner peace. Through questioning our perceived separateness and engaging in consistent practice, we can achieve a deep sense of serenity and connectedness, regardless of the external circumstances.
Henri Rousseau’s “The Sleeping Gypsy”, an 1897 oil painting, shows a woman deeply asleep in a desert, seemingly oblivious to the potential danger of the prowling lion. This could be interpreted as tranquility in the face of chaos or danger.
In today's world, we often navigate a maze of social, political, economic, and legal complexities that can make it difficult to find inner peace and connect with our deepest, purest consciousness or understanding of our true selves. Society has a way of keeping us busy, filling our minds with fear, stress, and constant activity. How this affects us can depend greatly on our situations, values, and ways of handling stress.
We're constantly bombarded with thoughts and emotions from all sides. Social pressure, ideas about success, work and career issues, financial worries, health scares, family matters, relationships - the list goes on. In this digital age, where social media and technology are everywhere, these distractions and sources of stress are even more present. It's easy to get caught up in these worries and fears, constructing walls that hinder us from truly experiencing life and connecting with our true selves. Furthermore, this constant deluge of worries and anxieties often prevents us from placing trust in life itself or naturally cultivating peace of mind. These barriers frequently inhibit us from being fully present in the moment, understanding and experiencing concepts like mindfulness, unity, and Oneness, which are crucial for anyone on a spiritual journey.
But there's a tool, inspired by various philosophical texts, that can help us through these tough times: the 'Piece of Mind.' It's a sentence we can use to identify everything around us. But it's more than just a sentence we repeat throughout the day, like a mantra. 'Piece of Mind' is a way to change how we see and understand the objects, people, and thoughts that fill our minds. It's a concept to keep at the forefront of our thoughts, promoting mindfulness and awareness. Using this tool, anyone on a spiritual path can simplify their daily lives, change their perspective, and see everything as part of a unified One Mind. This practice has many benefits, including inner peace, less judgment and attachment, compassion, and reduced fear and anxiety.
Let's take a moment to appreciate an intriguing linguistic design: the synchronicity between the sentences' Piece of Mind' and 'Peace of Mind.' Despite their different spellings, these phrases share a strikingly similar pronunciation in English. This harmony of words mirrors the profound teachings of nondualistic philosophies, the perspective that also forms the basis of the content presented on lenclos.org. 'Piece of Mind' and 'Peace of Mind' serve as a dual mantra.
Interchangeable, 'Piece of Mind' and 'Peace of Mind' beautifully illuminates the truth. On the one hand, as we practice perceiving the world as an illusion and understanding that humans are in a dream state, disconnected from our true nature as spirit, then every person, object, or thought becomes a 'piece' of the One, Unified Mind. 'Piece of Mind' is a gentle reminder that everything is part of the One Mind and indicative of our inherent serenity, stillness, and peace — our 'birthright' — despite the hustle and bustle of life. On the other hand, as spiritual practitioners, we naturally welcome inner peace when we approach every fragment of reality as part of the whole. This 'Peace of Mind' is the serenity that emerges when the One Mind realizes itself as the totality — the One consciousness of the universe.
Ready to unravel this concept further? Read on as we dive towards a deeper understanding of ourselves, the world, and the peace that lies within, into the labyrinth of our conscious mind and subconscious patterns, investigating how the application of 'Piece of Mind' can profoundly transform your life.
The Prevalence of Consciousness: From Particles to Planets
In her book "Conscious," Annaka Harris, who engaged in thoughtful dialogues with numerous researchers and scientists, explores the profound yet perplexing concept of consciousness. She posits that consciousness may not be limited to just humans or even higher animals, opening the door to the possibility that it could exist in simpler forms and potentially in all matter.
"The Astronomer" by Johannes Vermeer (1668, The Netherlands) depicts a man observing the skies in a quiet room, representing a sense of calmness and contemplation amidst the potentially chaotic world outside
Scientific research into animal behavior and neurology has revealed intriguing indications of consciousness in various species, suggesting that consciousness could be more prevalent in the animal kingdom than traditionally believed. Studies have shown elements of consciousness in mammals, birds, and even invertebrates like the octopus, which exhibits complex problem-solving abilities and behaviors. Some scientists even argue that certain behaviors of simpler life forms, like insects or bacteria, imply a rudimentary state of consciousness. Even more speculative are suggestions that plants, while lacking a nervous system, display behaviors—such as response to environmental stimuli and inter-plant communication—that could be interpreted as signs of a type of 'consciousness.'
“Our sense of individuality and separateness hinges on a bounded self and a clear demarcation between subject and object. But all that may be a mental construction, a kind of illusion.”
Quantum Physics is a field of study that has often been compared to the spiritual insights of nondual philosophies. Quantum physics, with its observations of particle entanglement and the uncertainty principle, demonstrates the interconnectedness and inseparability of all matter at the fundamental level. Notably, Erwin Schrödinger, a pioneering figure in quantum mechanics, offered a perspective that seems to echo the sentiments of nondualism. He states that a unified field of consciousness could indeed permeate the universe:
“Consciousness cannot be accounted for in physical terms. For consciousness is absolutely fundamental. It cannot be accounted for in terms of anything else.” — Erwin Schrödinger
Several other prominent scientists and thinkers, including physicists and philosophers, have proposed ideas that resonate with the concept: The British biologist and author Rupert Sheldrake proposed the concept of "morphic resonance," suggesting an inherent memory in nature that transcends time and space. While this isn't equivalent to universal consciousness, it does indicate a kind of interconnectedness. Additionally, theoretical physicist Freeman Dyson provides an intriguing perspective, encapsulating the notion that the universe might possess an inherent consciousness or purpose, a concept which, though contentious, continues to captivate thinkers across disciplines.
“Space, time and mass should be considered as creations of consciousness in the form of persistent bits field, bringing strong support to eastern ways of philosophical thinking based were Tao or Vacuity are the only non-dual realities.”
Finally, the intriguing research undertaken by physicist and chemist Marc Henry, as presented in his article "Consciousness, Information, Electromagnetism, and Water," offers a compelling exploration into two aspects of our universe that continue to confound modern science: consciousness and water. In this paper, Henry posits that these two seemingly disparate elements may be deeply intertwined, suggesting that insights gained in understanding one could illuminate our comprehension of the other.
Henry's research dives into the notion of a mirrored relationship between the immaterial dualities of consciousness and information and the material counterparts of electromagnetic radiation and water. He proposes that our perceived reality is not merely a 4-dimensional space-time continuum but a 5-dimensional space-time-scale hypersurface within a 6-dimensional continuum of consciousness.
This audacious perspective invites us to consider the possibility that entities can exist as observable or non-observable and that life is associated with the ability to manage information stored in the intrinsic quantum structure of this 6-dimensional ether or the water molecules enveloping every living cell.
Henry's theoretical framework suggests that space, time, and mass might be creations of consciousness, underlining Eastern philosophical perspectives where nondual realities are paramount.
This innovative exploration challenges our understanding of consciousness and its relationship to the physical world. It aligns intriguingly with the principles of nondualism, as it posits a deeply interconnected universe where consciousness might play a more fundamental role than conventionally assumed. This perspective could further elucidate our exploration of Oneness.
As we consider the startling idea that consciousness may be a fundamental aspect of existence, present even in the most basic forms of matter, a fascinating intersection of science, philosophy, and spirituality emerges. The idea echoes some elements of panpsychism, a philosophical viewpoint suggesting consciousness is a fundamental, ubiquitous component of the universe. Panpsychism theorizes that all matter, down to atoms, possesses a form of consciousness, albeit likely in a vastly different and more basic form than what humans experience.
Inherent in this broad consciousness might also be a profound peace of mind or serenity, a state of being that transcends our typical human experiences of stress and strife.
While panpsychism does not necessarily postulate a unified consciousness, this concept introduces a unique lens to view the idea of Oneness, a fundamental teaching of nondualist philosophies. It resonates not only with our spiritual practice but also perfectly with nondualistic philosophies, which postulate a universal consciousness and challenge the illusion of separation.
Nondualism, espoused by philosophies such as Hinduism's Advaita Vedanta, Daoism, and A Course In Miracles, asserts that all things are all beings and are part of an interconnected whole. Considering the possibility of consciousness pervading all matter, this perspective gains additional resonance. The unity of existence, as proposed by these spiritual traditions, parallels some aspects of our emerging scientific understanding.
Boldly extending our understanding, we could speculate that if all parts of existence are interconnected, and consciousness pervades every element, then the universe itself might be interpreted as possessing a type of 'awareness' or consciousness — essentially embodying a singular, unified mind. While this proposition could appear audacious, it encapsulates the foundational beliefs and aspirations of Lenclos.org, which offers a haven for exploring, contemplating, and understanding these profound concepts.
Oneness: Exploring Nondualist Philosophies and Our True Nature
Let's immerse ourselves in the world of Oneness and Presence, as depicted by Hindu philosophies, Eckhart Tolle, and A Course in Miracles. The idea is straightforward yet deeply significant - everything we see around us is part of a single mind, referred to as Brahman or Presence.
The "Wanderer above the Sea of Fog" by Caspar David Friedrich (1818, Germany). The chaos of the world is implied by the tumultuous fog and the unknown beyond, yet the man stands tranquil and thoughtful.
“Brahman is the ear of the ear, the mind of the mind, the speech of speech, the breath of breath, and the eye of the eye. Having detached the self (from the senses) and renounced the world, the wise realize the Self.”
This paragraph from the Upanishad implies an intimate interconnection among us all. Such understanding transforms our view of the world and reshapes our self-perception and the roles we play within it. As part of this interconnected consciousness, we are all integral parts of the whole, thus bearing shared responsibility for everything in our world. This sense of unity often transcends the five senses, commonly experienced during meditation. Embracing our true nature means finding ways to relinquish the illusion of separation in our daily interactions.
Delving deeper into nondualist philosophies like Advaita Vedanta of Hinduism, and specific interpretations of Christian mysticism, we encounter a profound perspective on the very nature of existence. These philosophies present Oneness as the essential truth underlying all reality.
Influential spiritual teachers such as Eckhart Tolle underscore the concept of Presence — a state of conscious awareness where we sense the interconnection permeating all life. Here, separation falls away, replaced by an all-encompassing unity that extends beyond the bounds of our selves.
“You are not separate from the whole. You are one with the sun, the earth, the air. You don’t have a life. You are life.”
In the state of Presence, the illusion of individuality fades. It's like we are merging with the whole, experiencing a profound communion with all that exists. We begin to understand that the seemingly separate elements of our world are, in truth, manifestations of a single unified consciousness.
This idea of Oneness isn't an abstract or esoteric concept but a profoundly tangible experience that can fundamentally shift our perception of self and others. As we open ourselves to the experience of Presence, we invite a transformative realization: that we are not isolated entities but integral threads in the infinite tapestry of existence.
The Transformative Benefits of Shared Consciousness
As we journey into the realm of the nondualistic, we begin to glimpse the profound benefits of dissolving the illusion of separation and embracing our shared consciousness.
“A mind at peace with its own clarity is a mind at peace with itself.”
Byron Katie reflected on the transformative impact of awakening, stating that as we embrace shared consciousness, we attain a peace of mind that originates from clarity and understanding - a peace deeply rooted in the unity of existence.
The benefits of shedding the illusion of separation and embracing our shared consciousness, as proposed by nondual teachings, are manifold but can be summarized into a short list:
Inner Peace
Recognizing the inherent interconnectedness of all life can lead to a profound sense of peace and serenity. It can help dissolve fear, anxiety, and conflict that stem from perceived separation.Compassion and Empathy
When we understand that we are not separate from others, we naturally develop more compassion and empathy. We see others' suffering as our own and are more inclined to help and support them.Freedom from Suffering
Many nondual philosophies suggest that the root of our suffering lies in the illusion of separateness. As we shed this illusion, we liberate ourselves from the cycle of desire vs. aversion, happiness vs. misery.Realization of True Self
Embracing shared consciousness leads to realizing our true nature beyond the limited, individual self. This realization, often referred to as Self-realization or enlightenment, is the ultimate goal of many spiritual traditions.Unity with the Divine
In many spiritual traditions, the experience of Oneness is equated with unity with the divine or God. Oneness leads to a profound sense of sacredness and reverence for all life.Greater Joy and Contentment
As we open ourselves to the state of eternal and pure Presence, we may experience a profound joy and contentment that is not dependent on external circumstances. We can savor the richness of each moment, fully alive and present.Expanded Perspective
Recognizing the Oneness of existence can broaden our perspective, helping us to see beyond our concerns and understand the bigger picture. This expanded perspective can bring greater wisdom and insight.
Often described as transformative, these benefits strike at the core of our existence, prompting a radical shift in how we perceive ourselves and the world around us. The American spiritual teacher Adyashanti once encapsulated this transformation, noting,
"In awakening, what’s revealed to us is that we are not that separate self. Instead, we are the awareness, the conscious spirit that is aware of the experience of being a separate self."
This revelation signals the beginning of a deeper understanding of our place in the universe, not as separate entities but as facets of a unified, shared consciousness. In the quoted statement from Adyashanti, he expresses that our true nature is not found in ourselves but in the consciousness or awareness that perceives that Self. This implies a state of unity because it suggests the same underlying consciousness or awareness is within all of us. The final part of the passage emphasizes this unity by describing us as "facets of a unified, shared consciousness." The term "facets" suggests that while we might appear distinct and separate on the surface, like facets of a diamond, we are all interconnected parts of the same underlying reality.
A Course in Miracles (ACIM), since its publication in 1976, has become a cornerstone in modern nondualistic philosophy due to its integrative approach to spirituality, psychology, and philosophy. Emphasizing the significance of this unity, ACIM offers a profound declaration,
"The peace of God is everything I want. The peace of God is my one goal; the aim of all my living here, the end I seek, my purpose and my function and my life, while I abide where I am not at home."
The journey towards opening our minds to the ancient Eastern philosophies and the more recent nondual texts from A Course In Miracles will eventually lead to profound transformation, inner peace, relief from suffering, and profound joy.
“The arising of this unifying field of consciousness between human beings is the most essential factor in relationships on the new earth.”
As we conclude this exploration into the benefits of shedding the illusion of separation and embracing our shared consciousness, it is imperative to mention the transformative power of the present moment because that's when everything starts and will ever be. The present moment is the only time that exists. In the present moment, we can most fully grasp the vastness of our shared consciousness and the interconnectedness of all life. In the 'now,' we can let go of past regrets and future anxieties, anchoring ourselves in the calm waters of Presence.
In essence, embracing the present moment allows us to step outside the ego's temporal framework and step into the eternal 'now.' This opens the doorway to the experience of Oneness and unity consciousness, the closest reflection of our eternal nature that we can experience while in the physical world.
Recognizing this eternal "now" as our pathway to experiencing Oneness, we are drawn to further reflect on how we interact with this reality.
Our Role and Responsibility in the Oneness
We cannot ignore our responsibility within this unified consciousness as we delve deeper into our understanding of Oneness and Presence. This understanding profoundly impacts our interactions with the world, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for our thoughts, actions, and consequences. We are not mere spectators in this great cosmic play but active participants shaping our shared reality.
As individual expressions of unified consciousness, our perceptions and beliefs shape our experiences. Many nondual philosophies suggest that our thoughts are instrumental in crafting our shared reality. A Course In Miracles, in particular, emphasizes the power of the mind, asserting that the external world we perceive reflects our internal state.
“The world you see is what you gave it, nothing more than that.... It is the witness to your state of mind, the outside picture of an inward condition.”
However, our societal roles, ambitions, and desires often cloud our understanding of this interconnectedness. We are conditioned to operate in a world of duality, constantly distinguishing between self and other, success and failure, joy and sorrow. These dualities breed a sense of separation, making us feel isolated and disconnected.
But this sense of separation is an illusion, as echoed in many spiritual teachings. The Christian mystic Meister Eckhart wrote,
"The eye through which I see God is the same eye through which God sees me; my eye and God's eye are one eye, one seeing, one knowing, one love.”
A Course In Miracles suggests that the choice for separation was a decision of the mind to disconnect from its true nature - the unconditional love of the Source. This choice is described as a 'tiny, mad idea' that we took seriously, leading to the perception of a world fragmented and divided.
“Into eternity, where all is one, there crept a tiny, mad idea, at which the Son of God remembered not to laugh.” (ACIM)
Paramahansa Yogananda, the author of the spiritual classic "Autobiography of a Yogi," says our identification with the body and the physical world is a kind of forgetfulness of our true spiritual nature.
“Man's conscious state is an awareness of body and breath. His subconscious state, active in sleep, is associated with his mental, and temporary, separation from body and breath. His superconscious state is a freedom from the delusion that 'existence' depends on body and breath. God lives without breath; the soul made in his image becomes conscious of itself, for the first time, only during the breathless state.”
Our task, as conscious beings, is to recognize this illusion for what it is and begin the journey back to unity. As we tune into Presence, aligning ourselves with the natural state of Oneness, we cultivate a mindset that encourages unity, compassion, and love. This shift in perspective helps us to dismantle the barriers of separation, paving the way for a more inclusive and holistic approach to living.
“You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in a drop.”
It's important to remember that this journey is not one of achieving or acquiring anything new but a journey of realization and remembrance. We are already one with the Source and each other. Our responsibility is to stay awakened to this truth, dissolving the illusion of separation in our relationships to everything, and live in a way that reflects our inherent unity.
We start with the cultivation of awareness, recognizing our mind's habitual tendency to forge illusions of separation. This entails observing our thoughts and feelings with a sense of detached curiosity. By fostering a state of mindfulness, we unveil the constructed notion of a separate self as a mere illusion.
Next, we practice love, extending kindness and compassion toward all beings. We understand that they are not distinct from us but manifestations of the same all-encompassing Oneness.
We then affirm unity. This means incorporating affirmations into our daily routines, reinforcing our awareness of unity. A simple yet powerful reminder we can echo within ourselves is the truth of our existence: we are not isolated entities but essential fragments of an interconnected whole.
In Presence, we nurture a quiet mind, allowing meditation or tranquil contemplation. Amidst the stillness of the mind, the realization of Oneness naturally dawns, radiating its serene light onto our perception.
Lastly, we embrace forgiveness. By consciously adhering to these principles, we gradually dissolve the illusion of separateness, awakening to the eternal truth of Oneness.
We are all invited to cultivate a profound sense of compassion, understanding, and shared responsibility for our world. We contribute to the collective consciousness and the world we co-create with every thought we think, every word we speak, and every action we take. We're not just bystanders but active participants shaping our shared reality. Our thoughts play a powerful role in influencing this reality. In some nondualistic texts, our thoughts project our reality, and the world we perceive through our five senses is, in essence, a reflection of our inner state.
Finding our way back to our true nature requires us to acknowledge our existence in the Oneness of Presence, a constant and unchanging reality we've never truly left. Through shedding the illusion of separation and embracing our shared consciousness, which takes practice, we open ourselves to a state of eternal and pure Presence. This state is the gateway to understanding and realizing our true nature.
Spiritual Vision: Practicing And Enhancing Our Understanding
For the spiritual practitioner, reality, as we perceive it in the world of form, time, and space, is misleading, as it hides the truth from us. As though trapped in a maze, we use tools such as meditations, mantras, and prayers to gain higher ground and view the maze from a different perspective. While in this maze, we perceive the world as a complicated, intricately intertwined environment. Societal norms and pressures push us to make choices, form opinions, pass judgments, and experience emotions in certain prescribed ways. We construct our identities, adhere to roles, compare ourselves, and reject certain groups to feel part of others. Depending on family principles, we may engage in a religious community, work hard to achieve status, and experience a sense of ownership when buying a home or acquiring items.
Conversion on the Way to Damascus, Caravaggio. Depicted here is the transformative moment in which Saul of Tarsus is bathed in a divine light descending from the heavens. The stark contrast between light and dark enhances the moment's profound nature, illustrating the transformative shift from illusion to spiritual enlightenment
The multiplicity of things the material world offers – this manifold phenomenon – is a typical view one has of the universe. In Daoism, this is called the 'ten thousand things.' Originally described in the Tao Te Ching, this symbolic expression encompasses all forms of existence or all beings in the world.
On the other hand, the Tao, often translated as 'The Way,' symbolizes the underlying unity or the primal Source from which all these 'ten thousand things' emerge and to which they return. The following quote is from Chapter 1 of the Tao Te Ching, as translated by Stephen Mitchell:
"The Tao that can be told is not the eternal Tao.
The name that can be named is not the eternal name.
The nameless is the beginning of heaven and earth.
The named is the mother of ten thousand things.
Ever desireless, one can see the mystery.
Ever desiring, one can see the manifestations.
These two spring from the same source but differ in name;
this appears as darkness.
Darkness within darkness.
The gate to all mystery."
This passage elucidates the difference between the unnameable Tao, the eternal reality, and the 'ten thousand things,' the worldly phenomena that are manifestations of the Tao. The nameless Tao is the origin of all things, whereas the named entities represent the diversity of life as we perceive it. The material world offers an overwhelming array of things to engage with, such as technology and gadgets, a variety of foods from different cultures, an array of clothing styles, a multitude of careers and hobbies, endless forms of entertainment like movies, music, books, and games, as well as myriad locations to explore from bustling cities to tranquil nature spots. It's a world where the range and diversity of objects and places can feel as vast and intricate as a multilayered tapestry.
Stepping into a supermarket can easily overwhelm the senses with vibrant colors, varying textures, and diverse fragrances. Our gaze sweeps across rows and rows of neatly stacked shelves, each carrying countless varieties of a single item. For instance, we might find ourselves in the jam aisle, confronted with a dozen different brands of strawberry jam. Research has shown that although we might initially appreciate the array of choices, we will likely feel more satisfied when the selection is limited. Excessive choices can lead to decision paralysis and post-decision regret, casting a shadow of doubt over our selection - "Did I make the right choice? Would the other jam have tasted better?" Such doubt extends beyond our supermarket experience, infusing our lives with a subtle, persistent unease that disrupts our sense of unity.
Discerning the underlying unity can be challenging as long as we're conditioned to focus on differences and preferences. Even our taste buds, delighting in the variety of flavors, contribute to this illusion of separateness and perpetuate our identification with the diversity of the material world.
In the same vein, human characteristics themselves add to this diversity and complexity. Attributes such as sex, gender, race, ethnicity, height, weight, eye color, hair color, and even personality traits or talents contribute to the rich tapestry of human existence, further illustrating the manifold nature of our perceived reality. Maya, in Advaita Vedanta, shares similarities with the 'ten thousand things' in Daoism, symbolizing the world of multiplicity, the world as we perceive it with our senses. Maya also connotes illusion or deceptive appearance that obscures the ultimate reality, referred to as Brahman in Advaita Vedanta, a concept akin to Tao. Both represent the ultimate, unfathomable, and indivisible reality or truth that underlies and permeates all existence.
In the Advaita Vedanta tradition, the concept of Brahman and Maya is explored in various texts, including the Upanishads. A well-known verse from the Mundaka Upanishad (3.1.1) says:
"Brahman is truth, knowledge, and infinite. It illumines the whole universe and yet, is beyond the universe. It is inexpressible, unchangeable, cannot be grasped by the senses, yet is the essence of all perceivable entities. It is pure consciousness."
In contrast, Maya is often described as the illusion or the material world we perceive with our senses. Maya is not false; it's just not the ultimate truth. It exists and doesn't exist at the same time. A verse from the Shvetashvatara Upanishad (4.10) illustrates this:
"Maya is elusive, always changing, without beginning or end, and the cause of the cycle of birth and death. It can only be overcome by realizing Brahman."
The illusion of separation extends beyond the multiplicity of material choices and human characteristics. It permeates our perception of reality, subtly influencing our feelings, conclusions, and narratives about ourselves and our world. This illusion finds expression in the stories of our past, those inherited from our family's lore or the ones we individually recount. Whether at the individual, family, or collective level, we're steeped in an intricate web of interpretation and meaning that further complicates our perception of reality.
At the family level, older adults often pass on their wisdom, experiences, and warnings that have been formed over time. They shape traditions, rituals, and habits with the hope of perpetuation, perhaps through the continuation of the family name with the birth of a male child. On a collective scale, we form alliances - through marital unions, bands, affinity clubs, activist groups, or political affiliations - creating yet another layer of separation.
Furthermore, our perception is influenced by the opinions others hold about us, their expectations, and their predictions for our future. We may even turn to the stars for guidance, seeking answers in astrology, numerology, or tarot readings, gazing into the metaphorical crystal ball of time and space.
All these aspects contribute to the expansive illusion of Maya, a labyrinth of choices, separations, and dualities that obscures the underlying reality of Brahman. To transcend this illusion, we must seek to realize the enduring, unchanging Brahman that pervades all existence.
Ramana Maharshi, a revered sage and proponent of Advaita Vedanta, put forth a profound encapsulation of the ultimate truth. As relayed by spiritual author and teacher Jason Gregory, Maharshi gave several pointers to the understanding that the multiplicity we perceive, the changes we undergo, the choices we believe we make, and the goals we strive for are all part of the grand illusion of Maya. In the face of the ultimate truth - the realization of Brahman - these seeming realities lose their grip. The illusion of separateness dissolves, revealing the timeless, boundless, indivisible reality of our true nature. In this realization, the labyrinth of illusion is seen for what it truly is – not a maze of separation and duality, but a dance of form, a play of consciousness, an expression of the one, indivisible, eternal Self.
“There is neither creation nor destruction, neither destiny nor free will, neither path nor achievement. This is the final truth.”
Just as the ancient wisdom of Advaita Vedanta offers a deep understanding of reality by distinguishing between the absolute, ultimate reality and the illusory world of perceptions, the teachings of Jesus, as recorded in the Bible, similarly articulate this differentiation. A passage from John 3:6 in the Bible (King James Version) reads:
"That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit."
In this passage, Jesus is speaking to a man named Nicodemus. In the conversation, Jesus elucidates the concept of spiritual rebirth, differentiating between the physical and spiritual realms. The statement "that which is born of the flesh is flesh" pertains to our physical existence—our bodies and our tangible world. Conversely, "that which is born of the Spirit is spirit" refers to our spiritual existence—our soul or spirit, birthed from God's Spirit. This conveys that our true essence or identity isn't bound to our physical bodies but is within our spiritual nature. Additionally, Jesus is famously quoted in Luke 17:21 (New International Version (NIV)): "Nor will people say, 'Here it is,' or 'There it is,' because the kingdom of God is in your midst." The term 'Kingdom of God' in the Bible has been widely understood to refer to a future divine realm or the realm where God reigns supreme.
Interestingly, A Course In Miracles (ACIM), published in 1976, reuses this term but reinterprets it within a nondualistic context. In ACIM, the Kingdom of God is seen as a present spiritual reality, synonymous with the Mind of God and our true spiritual Self, which is at one with God. ACIM emphasizes that the Kingdom of God is not a location or a future state but an inherent condition of perfect love and unity, obscured only by our erroneous beliefs in separation, fear, and guilt.
The ultimate reality—transcending time, space, and causation—is not a physical place but a spiritual state within each individual.
Explaining what pure consciousness, Oneness, or the Kingdom of Heaven is, is difficult, if not impossible. This must have been why enlightened people often speak about the truth in parables. "The First Principle" is a Zen parable that illustrates the distinction between illusion and reality:
“One day, a novice monk asked his master, "Master, what is the First Principle?"
The master replied, "If I tell you, it would become the Second Principle."
This brief exchange conveys the essence of Zen and nondualistic philosophies: the reality (in this case, the "First Principle") is beyond verbal or conceptual explanation. Any attempt to define, describe, or encapsulate it in words immediately turns it into something else (the "Second Principle")—an idea or a concept rather than the reality itself. The "First Principle" in this parable could be equated to the pure consciousness or the Source, while the "Second Principle" symbolizes the illusions or constructs of the mind—the world as we perceive it. The novice monk's question could represent the common human tendency to seek intellectual understanding, while the master's response underscores the need for direct experience and realization.
According to nondual teachings, the world (or what we perceive as false) and pure consciousness (what we perceive as true) are not separate but are essentially the same. We are not individual entities experiencing consciousness; we are consciousness experiencing itself as individuals. We can cultivate this understanding through spiritual practices such as meditation, self-inquiry, and mindfulness, allowing practitioners to experience reality's nondual nature directly.
For nondualists, distinguishing between the false and the true is less about separating one from the other and more about seeing the interconnectedness of all things. It's about understanding that the perceived dualities are just different expressions of the same underlying reality.
It's like seeing that waves and the ocean are not separate but are aspects of the same body of water.
For spiritual practitioners, our perceived world—marked by individuality, physicality, temporality, and separateness—is an illusion. The illusion extends from our bodies to our languages, countries, and even as far as the cosmos. With its myriad illusions, the world's labyrinth becomes more navigable with the compass of nondualistic teachings.
Nondualistic philosophies such as Advaita Vedanta remind us that our pure conscious awareness is beyond words and outside our five senses' realm. It is a profound reality that can only be experienced, not explained. As such, these philosophies often invite individuals to engage in practices like meditation, which serves as a doorway to accessing and experiencing this deeper reality.
In the silence and stillness of meditation, one can begin to dissolve the illusion of separateness and experience the unity of consciousness beyond the chatter of the mind and the distractions of the material world.
Yet, amid our complex and often overwhelming world, nondualistic teachings provide a valuable toolkit. They equip us with practices and perspectives to discern between illusion and truth, helping us experience our Oneness with all and our inherent peace and tranquility.
A Course in Miracles also offers a contemporary path to enlightenment. ACIM provides a practical, year-long curriculum akin to a self-help guide, which aids in transitioning our perception from fear to love, from the illusion of separateness to the truth of Oneness. ACIM emphasizes the crucial need to distinguish between the illusory world of separation (the false) and the reality of Oneness (the true or the Kingdom of Heaven). ACIM urges us to adopt a spiritual perspective in every situation and provides lessons to practice daily. To guide students towards a spiritually enlightened view of life in the world, a central tenet of ACIM stresses the necessity to use forgiveness as a tool — not because others have committed tangible wrongs requiring pardon, but because our perception of separation, conflict and aggression is a misconstrued view that calls for rectification.
“Nothing real can be threatened. Nothing unreal exists. Herein lies the peace of God.”
By choosing forgiveness, we are choosing to let go of the illusions of the dream world and awaken to the reality of Oneness. This is the journey from the false to the true, from the perception of separation to the awareness of Oneness, which ACIM equates with the Kingdom of Heaven, from the dream to awakening, from conflict and peace, and from fear to love.
Embracing practices such as meditation or forgiveness (the process of releasing illusions)can help us slowly peel away the layers of temporal and physical illusions, like our body, identity, and historical narratives. These practices invite us to be present in the moment, which allows us to experience a glimpse of our eternal, expansive nature. In this perspective, we see ourselves not as flawed physical beings but as eternal spirits, embodying perfect innocence and existing in a constant presence.
As we awaken from the dream of separation and illusion, we realize our shared consciousness, embracing our unified, eternal essence. Our journey through life becomes not merely an exploration of the world around us but a profound inward journey, a voyage into the heart of our true Self.
Empowering the Awakening Journey with 'Piece of Mind', a Tool Designed for Everyday Life
As we embark on a spiritual journey, embracing the wisdom of diverse mystical traditions - from the nondualistic philosophies of Hindu Advaita Vedanta and Daoism to the insights of Buddhist mindfulness and the profound teachings of A Course in Miracles - we find ourselves immersed in a rich tapestry of spiritual concepts and practices. This journey is a path of transcendence, seeking to navigate beyond the limitations of the ego-centric worldview that often dominates our perception. However, embracing these teachings can be a challenging endeavor. These profound philosophies call for a radical redefinition of our understanding of reality, Self, and existence - a complex task given our deeply ingrained thought patterns, behavior, and perception. Moreover, actualizing these teachings amid the bustling activity of modern urban life requires consistent practice, mindfulness, and a committed resolve for inner transformation. It becomes a delicate dance of integrating profound spiritual wisdom into our daily lives while continuously negotiating with the pervasive ego thought system. At L'Enclos, we've embraced this challenge, developing spiritual design as a creative practice. This results in tools like 'Piece of Mind,' an everyday mantra that assists spiritual practitioners in maintaining a tangible connection to their practice.
The painting “Saint Jerome in His Study” by Antonello da Messina depicts Saint Jerome in a tranquil study, surrounded by symbols of everyday life and his scholarly pursuits.
Navigating the Paradox of Oneness in a Dualistic World
A fact of the spiritual journey is the inherent challenge of embracing and practicing Oneness, Unity, and Interconnectedness in a world seemingly constructed on foundations of separation, distinction, and individuality. Indeed, our daily experiences are typically filtered through a lens of duality, an endless array of 'this' and 'that,' 'you' and 'me,' 'us' and 'them.' Against this backdrop, the practitioner of nondualism is invited to navigate a counter-current, embodying an awareness of indivisibility, releasing attachments, judgments, and separative thinking.
“It’s dark because you are trying too hard. Lightly child, lightly. Learn to do everything lightly. Yes, feel lightly even though you’re feeling deeply. Just lightly let things happen and lightly cope with them.”
The essence of these spiritual practices is often elusive, obscured by the complexities and distractions of everyday life. The hustle of the urban environment, the societal pressures towards materialism, competitiveness, and the constant bombardment of sensory stimuli all draw us from our center towards a fragmented, disconnected consciousness.
The spiritual teachers' conundrum today lies in the challenge of teaching while encouraging students not to be attached to knowledge itself but rather to be inspired by the teachings to accept their true condition and live free as spirit.
The aim is to guide followers toward a deeper understanding and connection with the divine, in practice vs. in theory. Teaching is necessary for there to be a pathway to knowledge. Yet, it is essential to recognize that amassing knowledge of God doesn't necessarily equate to truly knowing or experiencing God. The delicate balance lies in imparting wisdom while fostering a personal, experiential connection with the divine transcending mere intellectual understanding.
Within this seeming paradox lies the potential for profound transformation. The spiritual practitioner is called upon to perceive unity amidst apparent separation and recognize existence's interdependent nature beneath the illusion of individuality. Practicing this awareness amid our daily routines can be daunting, like trying to discern a subtle melody in a cacophonous symphony. It's a constant effort to seek the unseen thread that weaves all creation into a harmonious tapestry.
In this context, the need for a spiritual tool, a beacon of sorts, that is accessible, flexible, and effective becomes palpable. A tool that serves as a steady anchor amidst the ebbs and flows of life, gently guiding us back to the heart of spiritual wisdom – to the recognition of Oneness, to the living practice of Non-Duality.
Harnessing 'Piece of Mind': A Practical Mantra for Spiritual Harmony
In recognizing the challenges of recalling all spiritual teachings and maintaining a clear, present mind in varying situations, a form of assistance for spiritual practitioners became apparent. This aid had to be ready for use at a moment's notice, devoid of complexity or specific terminology, yet potent enough to be adopted by anyone on a spiritual path.
The 'Piece of Mind' practice emerged from this need, stretching beyond the boundaries of defined meditation or prayer sessions. This tool is designed to permeate our everyday consciousness, fostering continuous mindfulness and awareness.
As a mental aid, 'Piece of Mind' helps shape our daily perceptions and attitudes, nurturing the view of everything as an expression of the interconnected and unified One Mind.
By employing this single phrase to understand every element we encounter, we diminish the immediate separation often felt when identifying with our ego.
This mantra is designed to be a constant echo throughout our day, invoked as we meet various objects, people, or situations that could distract us from our meditative state or pull us back into ego-centric thinking.
The 'Piece of Mind' practice offers profound advantages, summarized as follows:
Promoting Mindfulness: The 'Piece of Mind' mantra aids in staying conscious and aware of the present moment. It is a gentle reminder to return to mindfulness amid daily distractions and engagements.
Fostering Oneness: 'Piece of Mind' encourages a perception of unity, promoting a worldview where everything is an interconnected aspect of the One Mind. This can help reduce feelings of isolation or separation.
Preventing Dramatization: By invoking 'Piece of Mind,' we can avoid unnecessary dramatization of situations, helping maintain calmness and objectivity during challenging events.
Reducing Judgment: Using the 'Piece of Mind' mantra helps us avoid hasty judgment, fostering understanding and compassion for others and ourselves.
“In mindfulness, one is not only restful and happy, but alert and awake. Meditation is not evasion; it is a serene encounter with reality.”
Alleviating Materialism: The 'Piece of Mind' practice prompts introspection on materialistic pursuits, encouraging contentment and simplicity over constant accumulation.
Cultivating Inner Peace: 'Piece of Mind' reminds us of our inherent nature of peace, helping us navigate fear, stress, and anxiety, eventually transitioning into a state of 'Peace of Mind.'
Facilitating Transition to 'Peace of Mind': As we become attuned to the truth of our interconnectedness, the shift from 'Piece of Mind' to 'Peace of Mind' naturally unfolds, cultivating a sense of enduring tranquility and harmony.
The daily application of the 'Piece of Mind' mantra has the transformative potential to simplify our daily activities, change our perspective on challenges, and lead us towards enduring tranquility and harmony. This practice turns every encounter into an opportunity for meditation and inner peace, fostering non-judgment, nonattachment, and compassion.
As we consistently engage with the 'Piece of Mind' mantra, we transition towards 'Peace of Mind,' which naturally unfolds as we attune to our interconnectedness. We begin to cultivate a sense of enduring tranquility and harmony, a testament to the power of this everyday mantra.
Unraveling the One Mind: From Pieces to Peace
"Repeat "piece of mind" quietly in your head as a way to remind yourself of some of the characteristics of the Universal Mind, Presence, Pure Consciousness, Brahman, God, or similar concepts often articulated metaphorically or abstractly in the various nondualistic philosophies to which you adhere.
Common transcendental descriptors or qualities of the Universal Consciousness that may come to mind when using 'Piece of Mind' and 'Peace of Mind' interchangeably include infinity, formlessness, and peace, to name a few.
“You are what your deep, driving desire is. As your desire is, so is your will. As your will is, so is your deed. As your deed is, so is your destiny.”
With either phrase in mind, the spiritual practitioner can, at any time, remind themselves that the true reality is that of an abstract concept of Pure Mind or Pure Consciousness, representing the highest state of awareness.
As the One Mind, it is whole and, therefore, complete and perfect, lacking nothing. As One Mind, it embodies unity, interconnectedness, and interdependence. Additionally, the One Mind transcends physical form and sensory perception. Finally, as the One Mind, it embodies complete knowledge or wisdom.
As 'Piece of Mind,' anything transcends all conceptual thought and linguistic description. The word 'piece,' which can refer to any shape or form, living or inanimate, reflects the nondual and recognizes no separation. All distinctions of self and other, subject and object, are illusions.
As 'Pieces of Mind,' all things are kept unnamed, undifferentiated, just there, recognizing no separation.
'Peace of Mind,' which anyone practicing this tool will realize, comes to mind visually as a natural transformation from Pieces to Peace. It happens when the effort to turn things into pointers to the One Mind returns them insignificant on their own, and everything seems to be part of a whole at all times. 'Peace of Mind' emerges when you've moved on from the definitive differentiations between things, people, and thoughts when you've moved on from the descriptions and are seeking the one true meaning, the true nature of Self. 'Piece of Mind' is meant to guide spiritual seekers towards a direct, experiential understanding of the reality of Brahman. By the time we get to 'Peace of Mind,' the individual has almost vanished, the separation of the minds disappears, and the body subsides, making space for pure spirit and pure consciousness.
At the end of your day, the year, or life, all the 'Pieces' of Mind together represent an indescribable amalgam of concepts representing the experienced consciousness, without judgment, in peace, in One Mind.
From Fragmentation to Wholeness: A Piece of Mind Journey
We've explored the profound meaning behind the phrase 'Piece of Mind' and its significance in the context of nondualistic philosophies. Let's now extend this exploration and delve into how this concept helps us transcend some of the major distractions and illusions of separation that often cloud our understanding of Oneness.
Transitioning from the intricate labyrinth of worldly distractions to the stillness of inner peace can seem daunting. Surrounded by many choices and incessantly bombarded by the demands of our materialistic society, we often lose sight of the profound unity underlying all existence.
The fast pace of city life can feel chaotic, distancing us from spiritual practices that ground us in our true nature. Yet, with 'Piece of Mind,' we can tap into an underlying calm, a reservoir of tranquility amidst the city's cacophony.
Materialism often has us chasing shadows. Our fixation on acquiring more can disconnect us from the spiritual essence that permeates all existence. However, 'Piece of Mind' prompts us to question the purpose of our pursuit and invites us to embrace simplicity, fostering contentment.
Societal norms and expectations shape our identities, often at the cost of our authenticity. This breeds a sense of separation from our true selves and each other. 'Piece of Mind' encourages us to break free from these molds, fostering self-discovery and growth.
In our information-dense world, the constant influx of news and social media can create a 'mental noise,' obstructing our inner peace. By invoking 'Piece of Mind,' we remind ourselves to step back, disconnect from the overload, and create a space for silence and introspection.
“Weapons do not cleave this self, fire does not burn it, waters do not wet it, wind does not wither it... This self cannot be cut, nor burnt, nor wetted, nor withered. Eternal, all-pervading, stable, immovable is this self...”
When we're entangled in fear, stress, and anxiety, our spiritual progress can feel hindered. Yet, 'Piece of Mind' offers a gentle reminder that our essential nature is peace, and in turning towards it, we can navigate our way through these challenges.
In essence, invoking 'Piece of Mind' enables us to confront and transcend the distractions and illusions that cloud our perception of unity. It serves as a beacon of awareness, guiding us back to our inherent Oneness.
As we become more attuned to this truth, the transition from 'Piece of Mind' to 'Peace of Mind' naturally unfolds:
In quiet spaces, amidst the worldly din, we begin to experience 'Peace of Mind.' With the understanding that we are not separate entities but interconnected pieces of a grand cosmic puzzle, we move into a state of profound inner peace.
Embrace this journey from 'Piece of Mind' to 'Peace of Mind.' Each step brings us closer to the unchanging truth of our existence - our interconnectedness and Oneness with the cosmos. This realization cultivates a sense of enduring tranquility and a 'Peace of Mind.' Let's welcome this wisdom, allow it to illuminate our path, and lead us toward unity and harmony.
*Portions of this article were revised and rendered clear using an AI language model, and certain quotes were sourced with the assistance of AI research.