Learning to connect with your higher consciousness can open up many possibilities for spiritual growth. But how easy is this to do, and why do we need to awaken our consciousness? Read on to discover why this is important for humanity, and how you can encourage your own awakening.
What is consciousness?
Consciousness can be defined as a conscious awareness of ourselves and the world around us. We can go in and out of consciousness, and it’s an essential part of our ability to make choices, process information, and adapt to different experiences in life. There are varying theories of consciousness, which continue to be researched and debated.
States of human consciousness include dreams, sleep, meditation, hypnosis and hallucinations. There can sometimes be disorders of consciousness, where consciousness is inhibited for various reasons.
We often hear about higher consciousness in spirituality, which describes a state of higher awareness, where we are connected with a higher energy. For the simplest take on higher consciousness, Philosopher and School of Life founder Alain de Botton tells us that:
“Ordinary life rewards practical, unintrospective, self-justifying outlooks that are the hallmarks of what we could call 'lower' consciousness. Neuroscientists speak of a 'lower' part of the brain they term the reptilian mind and tell us that under its sway, we strike back when we’re hit, blame others, quell any stray questions that lack immediate relevance, fail to free-associate, and stick closely to a flattering image of who we are and where we are heading.”
He says that when we experience higher consciousness, “the mind moves beyond its particular self-interests and cravings.” And we are able to “develop the ability to explain others’ actions by their distress, rather than simply in terms of how it affects us.” He speaks of higher consciousness, allowing us to practise “universal kindness,” and that the appropriate response to humanity is always love.
We might experience a
state of higher consciousness during meditation, mindfulness, or when we feel on a "high," or energetically aligned with what we are doing. Writer Maria Popova talks about the effects of higher consciousness on the human spirit:
“At such moments, the world reveals itself as quite different: a place of suffering and misguided effort, but also a place of tenderness and longing, beauty, and touching vulnerability.”
Why does consciousness need to be awakened?
We spend much of our time living life on autopilot, in a lower state of consciousness. This can look like going through the motions, rather than being aware of our power and conscious experiences. As humans, we are becoming more aware and are rapidly expanding consciousness all the time.
There is an increasing awareness of life beyond the physical self, and more people than ever are searching for meaning and purpose in their lives. As we connect to a higher state of consciousness, we begin to realise our unlimited potential, and find connection to our true nature.
This evolution and rediscovery of who we are is part of human nature. As we
experience a spiritual awakening, we will find more joy and fulfilment in life, discover empathy and compassion, and experience what it is to be fully human.
The best ways to awaken your consciousness
There is no set way to awaken your consciousness; it is a process that cannot be forced. Here are some ways that you can begin to awaken your consciousness:
- 1. Spend time in nature
Immersing yourself in nature helps to keep you rooted, and awaken your inner connection. You can read more about connecting with nature and realigning yourself spiritually here.
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2. Practice mindfulness
Mindfulness helps us to discover our spiritual side, and to become more present.
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3. Open your mind
Opening your mind allows you to discover new possibilities and raises your awareness.
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4. Meditate
Meditation is a great way to deepen your connection, not only to yourself, but to a higher consciousness.
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5. Allow life to flow
When you let go of the need to control everything, you make space to connect with your higher self and allow it to guide you.
Author Bio
Gareth Michael is a spiritual coach, teacher, channel of Michael, and author of the best-selling book,
Ever-changing Perspectives. He provides tangible, practical spiritual support stemming from his own life lessons and Michael’s profound wisdom and teachings. His personalized guidance helps people heal, find their spiritual direction, and understand their purpose.