Our greatest challenge
Even if you win in ego it is a loss.
Even if you lose in love it is a victory.
-Shri Shri Ravi Shankar
Why is change such a great accomplishment?
Because it requires the courage to face our greatest challenge - ego, or ahamkara in Sanskrit. The ego is reflected in our state of mind and emotion, and it is responsible for our sense of identity and belonging, as well as our habits and perceptions. The idea that “I am…”, “I must…”, “I won’t…” and so on, are driven primarily by the ego’s impressions and attachments.
The ego is a necessary part of being human and having a sense of identity. It can be a useful tool to help us realise our individual aspirations, and allows us to take care of our everyday needs. But when the ego becomes too strong, we become so absorbed in it that we cannot see past the “I”. Then, the ego takes us away from our true selves and our unique path in life, and we feel small, lonely and defensive. The need to control and please others takes over, often at the expense of our wellbeing, and we are left feeling unsure of ourselves and discontented with our lives.
When the ego wins, it can be at the expense of the more subtle Self. How do you know which it is? When your inner voice is loud, insistent and in the mode of judging and competing, consider if this is the ego. Your Self is often the gentle, more considered voice, nudging rather than pushing. The ego acts out of fear, while the Self acts out of love. We are human, and we have both ego and Self - the opportunity is to create space and awareness for each of them to present their case, and to have the discernment to choose our course. The path may not be the easier one to begin with, but it will allow us to have deeper, honest and more loving experiences in life.
Can you take one step to challenge your ego? The first step is to recognise an attachment or impression you have that does not serve you, but has become habitual. This is the ego saying “I want”. Perhaps it can be something small like ending the working day early twice a week, or taking a day off social media. Or it could be bigger, like making the decision to learn how to create a more holistic life and reach for something deeper this year.
The ego is only an external shadow; an outline of all that you truly are. Step out of your shadow and into your own light.
Ayurveda is part of a series of sciences that offer us the opportunity to optimise our health, energy and mental clarity through a natural, holistic lifestyle.
