On a handful of occasions in the last year or so, I have had the experience (on waking from sleep) of being totally aware. There is not anything to identify with or attach to. Then a second later I become fearful of not knowing and re-identify with my persona. Can you share what state I have been in and how/why it happens? Is it a good thing? Many thanks, Diana
—Diana Barrett, US
Diana,
Patanjali identifies and names a spectrum of specific meditative states but while the specifics are secondary let me say that the state of self-awareness without condition or identification with body or personality is an aspect of the causal state of consciousness.
Even if but a fleeting or occasional experience, it is a true and welcome state. You should meditate upon this state: meaning intuitively recall it during meditation (and especially after meditation practices and sitting in the silence). Indeed, this is one of the meditations suggested by Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras.
Thus, while the experience has come to you seemingly unsought (though surely a product of your meditation efforts and karma), it is helpful to see if you can consciously reawaken the state. It can even be done by taking mental breaks during the day but it most certainly should be recalled (by feeling and intuition) in meditation.
Blessings!
Nayaswami Hriman
