There are several ways of understanding and describing the meaning of being aware. For our purposes, let us look at this term as it relates to personal development and growth. Being aware refers to the unbiased capacity of observation without self-influencing thoughts or biases getting in the way.
As humans, we are naturally predisposed to see the world through our own lens. We make sense of the world around us through our own filters, and often those filters are heavily clouded by false perceptions, low self-esteem, or confusion.
To be aware or conscious is to understand the sense of an occurrence, situation, or experience through a clearer lens, without as much prejudice as possible. It’s about seeing things as they are. In order to achieve this capacity, you need to be present at the moment and block distractions such as your inner negative self-talk.
One of the most powerful ways to achieve unadulterated awareness is to use a meditation practice. You can find out how you can use meditation to raise awareness by learning the benefits it offers here.
Brings the Present to Focus
A way to become more aware and to see things in the moment as they really are, things that others might overlook, you need to practice mindfulness. Mindfulness is the art of experiencing the moment, or here and now. With so many concerns and responsibilities, most of us worry about a million things every day.
When we have such distractions clouding our minds, it’s difficult to be fully conscious and aware. Our senses get rusty, and we forget what’s going on right now at this particular moment in time. Meditation helps clear your mind and prepare your brain to remove the clutter.
Clear the Clutter
Meditation exists in a range of ways. It really doesn’t matter which kind you use, as long as you participate in some sort on a regular basis. It takes practice to learn how to sort out the useless noise in your mind and learn how to concentrate on the moment.
A simple way to get started is to just sit in a quiet position with your eyes closed and take deep breaths in and out. Just concentrate on your breathing. If a stray thought comes into your mind, it’s all right to take note of it. Then put it aside to get back to your breathing.
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This will take practice, but soon you will find yourself quickly ignoring the clutter in your brain and concentrating on your breath or other chosen object.
Gain Control
Too many of us allow our emotions and desires to be in charge of us. We respond to any emotion, and with the slightest bit of upheaval, we are thrown into a state of turmoil. In these statements, you can recognize yourself.
If so, know that meditation will help you gain control over your feelings, fears, and emotions. This control gives rise to greater awareness without prejudice. Your mind and its contents are tools of yours. You’re in charge of how to use them.
As you practice meditation, you will find that this change is gradually taking place. It’s an extremely rewarding realization to learn that you’re in charge.
Meditation will enhance and increase your awareness. Becoming more conscious of the environment as it really is, rather than seeing it through a clouded lens, is central to any meaningful journey of personal growth.
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