The Seven States of Consciousness According to Ayurveda
In Ayurveda, the ancient Indian science of life and longevity, there are seven states of consciousness, each representing a deeper stage of awareness.
The first state, Jagruti, represents the waking state of consciousness where we perceive the world through our senses.
The second state, Swapna, refers to the dream state, where we delve into the realm of dreams, thoughts, and emotions.
The third state Sushupti, is the deep sleep state, a phase of unconscious rest and rejuvenation.
The fourth state, Turiya, is the transcendental consciousness, a state of pure awareness beyond the three common states of consciousness.
From here, the journey moves into higher realms of consciousness: Turiyatita, the fifth stage, is a state of cosmic consciousness, where you experience unity with all life.
The sixth state, Bhagavat Prapti, is divine consciousness, where the universe is experienced as an expression of the divine.
The seventh state, Brahmi Chetana, is unity consciousness, where you experience yourself as the source of all creation.
Each state of consciousness provides deeper insight into our existence, leading us to a harmonious state of health and wellbeing.
Transcending through the seven states of consciousness is a journey of self-discovery and spiritual development. The process begins with fostering awareness of one's thoughts, actions, and emotions. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and yoga, can help individuals cultivate this awareness, setting the stage for the first state, Jagruti.
Progressing deeper into Swapna and Sushupti necessitates a more profound understanding of our subconscious mind, often explored through dream interpretation and introspective practices.
The transition to Turiya or transcendental consciousness can be facilitated by deep meditative experiences, silence, and solitude, where one can experience a state of pure consciousness beyond thought and emotion.
Turiyatita, or cosmic consciousness, can be realized through practices that foster a sense of unity and interconnectedness with all life, often nurtured by selfless service, and a loving, compassionate attitude towards all beings.
Reaching Bhagavat Prapti, the divine consciousness, requires surrender, devotion, and the recognition of divinity in all aspects of life.
Finally, achieving the seventh state, Brahmi Chetana, demands a complete dissolution of the self, an egoless state where one experiences oneself as the source of all creation. This is the pinnacle of spiritual evolution, often pursued through a lifetime, or multiple lifetimes, of dedicated spiritual practices, self-inquiry, and grace.
At the core of this journey towards self-realization is the concept of God Consciousness, often viewed as an advanced state of spiritual awakening. In this state, individuals transcend the boundaries of their individual selves to experience a profound connection with a divine or universal consciousness, perceiving themselves as part of a larger, divine cosmic order.
This consciousness is not bound by religious definitions of God, but rather it is an experiential state of being where love, peace, and joy emanate from within, illuminating our interactions with the world. The journey to God Consciousness is deeply personal and unique, a profound transformation that fosters compassion, wisdom, and an unshakeable inner peace.
God Consciousness is generally considered to be an advanced level of consciousness, often placed at the pinnacle of spiritual evolution. This state of consciousness transcends the limitations of individual self and extends one's awareness to a divine or universal consciousness. It is a state where individuals experience themselves as part of a larger, divine cosmic order. However, it's crucial to remember that the progression and categorization may vary according to different spiritual traditions and perspectives.
