The concept of the “Self” lies at the core of many spiritual and philosophical traditions. It is often described as the most fundamental aspect of our being, the true essence of who we are. However, the Self is not something we can easily grasp through our usual means of understanding, like thought, perception, or intellect. It transcends our physical, mental, and emotional experiences, yet it is ever-present and underlies all of them. In this chapter, we will explore what the Self is, how it differs from the ego or personality, and why understanding the Self is key to realizing true reality. The Self as Pure Consciousness At its essence, the Self is pure consciousness. It is the awareness that observes all experiences, but it is not limited by or attached to those experiences. It is the unchanging witness of all that arises in life—the thoughts, emotions, sensations, and perceptions we experience daily. To grasp this concept, think about a movie screen. The screen remains ...
𝐅𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫
𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐲 is a holistic practice that uses the scent of
flowers to promote physical and emotional well-being. It is based on the
belief that the fragrance of flowers can stimulate the olfactory system
and affect mood, emotions, and physical health.
In flower aromatherapy,
essential oils are extracted from flowers using steam distillation or
other methods, and these oils are then used for various purposes, such
as massage, inhalation, or added to bath water. The fragrance of the
essential oils is thought to stimulate the limbic system in the brain,
which is responsible for regulating emotions, and thus promote
relaxation, reduce stress, and improve mood.
Some of the most
popular flowers used in flower aromatherapy include lavender, rose,
jasmine, chamomile, and ylang-ylang. Each flower is believed to have its
own unique fragrance and therapeutic properties, and different
combinations of oils can be used to address specific health concerns or
moods.
As with any alternative therapy, it is important to
consult with a healthcare professional before using flower aromatherapy,
especially if you have any medical conditions or allergies.