Significance of Self-awareness
Self-awareness is a multifaceted concept embraced by various philosophical and spiritual traditions, each emphasizing its significance differently. In Buddhism, it connects to understanding one's existence and emotional responses, while Ayurvedic views highlight its importance for health and personal growth. Vedanta focuses on recognizing one's true nature beyond physical identity, and Mahayana stresses awareness of thoughts for spiritual development. Across disciplines, self-awareness is crucial for personal transformation, emotional regulation, and overall well-being, significantly impacting individual identity and consciousness.
Synonyms: Self-consciousness, Self-knowledge, Self-perception, Introspection, Self-reflection, Self-recognition, Self-understanding, Mindfulness
In Dutch: Zelfbewustzijn; In German: Selbstbewusstsein; In Finnish: Itsetietoisuus; In Spanish: Autoconciencia
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Self-awareness'
In Buddhism, Self-awareness encompasses understanding one's thoughts and emotions, recognizing mental processes, acknowledging actions and influences, and achieving consciousness of existence, all of which are vital for spiritual growth and attaining wisdom.
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) The understanding of one's own thoughts and actions, which is essential for recognizing demonic influences and maintaining a proper mindset.[1] (2) The conscious knowledge of one’s own character and feelings, essential for spiritual growth.[2] (3) Recognition and understanding of one's own mind and its processes, critical for spiritual development.[3]
From: Bodhinyana
(1) The understanding and recognition of one's thoughts, feelings, and emotional responses during meditation.[4]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) A state of consciousness that recognizes and understands one's own existence and thoughts.[5]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The understanding of one’s own state of mind, particularly recognizing when one is foolish, is crucial for attaining wisdom.[6]
Hindu concept of 'Self-awareness'
Self-awareness in Hinduism encompasses recognition of one's true nature beyond external influences, fostering personal growth and understanding of the self's relationship with universal consciousness, ultimately leading to liberation and transformation through conscious identity realization.
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) The understanding of one’s own true nature, independent of external influences and conditions.[7] (2) The self-awareness attributed to ego, which leads to an understanding of one's identity in relation to the body.[8]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The recognition of one's individual identity and origin that is often lost upon merging into Being.[9]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The conscious understanding that one is not their body or mind, but rather the eternal and unchanging Self.[10]
From: Bhagavatpadabhyudaya by Lakshmana Suri (study)
(1) A profound understanding of one's true nature and existence, as emphasized in the teachings.[11]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) The consciousness inherent to the spirit that enables recognition of existence and is regarded as essential for life and understanding.[12] (2) An understanding of oneself, which plays a crucial role in maintaining health and preventing disease.[13]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) Consciousness of one’s own character, feelings, motives, and desires, essential for personal growth.[14]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Recognizing the nature of one's own existence in relation to the universal consciousness.[15]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The understanding and observation of one's own thoughts and mental processes as part of the practice of Yoga.[16]
From: Gitartha Samgraha (critical Study)
(1) The transformation and realization of one's conscious identity as described in connection with Vasudeva.[17]
From: Shukra Niti by Shukracharya
(1) Understanding one's own character, qualities, and motivations.[18]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) A heightened sense of understanding and clarity regarding one’s true nature, which leads to liberation.[19]
The concept of Self-awareness in local and regional sources
Self-awareness encompasses understanding one's thoughts, feelings, and character, essential for personal growth, inner transformation, true meditation, and connection to the universe, differentiating humans from animals and influencing individual identity and national consciousness.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) An understanding of one’s own character, feelings, and motives, highlighted in Nina Leeds' journey in 'Strange Interlude.'[20] (2) The awareness of one’s own identity and connection to the universe, which can lead to an understanding of the greater Reality.[21] (3) The understanding and consciousness of one's own existence and individuality, a key trait that differentiates man from other animals.[22] (4) The conscious knowledge of one’s character, feelings, motives, and desires that leads to personal growth.[23] (5) The conscious knowledge of one's own character and feelings, which plays a critical role in Yogic practices.[24]
From: Self-Knowledge in Krishnamurti’s Philosophy
(1) The state of being conscious of one's own thoughts and actions, viewed by Krishnamurti as essential for true meditation and understanding.[25] (2) The necessary understanding of oneself that leads to inner transformation and a change of heart, essential for achieving peace and happiness.[26] (3) The capacity to recognize one's own thoughts, feelings, and motivations.[27]
From: Folk Tales of Gujarat (and Jhaverchand Meghani)
(1) The evolving consciousness among Indians regarding their identity and rights, significantly influenced by nationalist movements.[28]
The concept of Self-awareness in scientific sources
Self-awareness involves recognizing and understanding one's emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, leading to better stress management. This heightened awareness fosters personal growth and emotional regulation, ultimately enhancing overall well-being.
From: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
(1) The conscious knowledge of one's own character and feelings, emphasized in life skills education to enhance emotional intelligence.[29] (2) The ability to understand and recognize one's emotions and how they affect others, considered a crucial component of emotional intelligence.[30] (3) The state of being conscious of one's own character, feelings, motives, and desires, which is influenced by personality traits.[31] (4) A patient's recognition of their own role and responsibilities in their healthcare, which may influence their satisfaction.[32]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine
(1) An understanding of one's own emotions and thoughts, which is improved through practices like Sudarshan Kriya Yoga.[33] (2) The ability to have conscious knowledge of one’s own character, feelings, motives, and desires, essential for achieving personal excellence.[34] (3) Self-awareness involves recognizing one's own emotions and responses, which can improve coping with stress and emotional regulation.[35] (4) The recognition of one’s own identity and existence, which can be promoted through guided therapy approaches, enhancing social interactions.[36]
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) The conscious knowledge of one's own character and feelings, which assists in personal development and mental health wellness.[37] (2) Understanding one's own health needs and preferences when choosing food.[38] (3) The understanding of one's own unique individual existence, contributing to personality development.[39]
From: International Ayurvedic Medical Journal
(1) Understanding one's own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, which is a goal of the counseling techniques implemented in the study.[40] (2) The understanding of one's own emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, which can help in managing stress.[41]
From: Ayushdhara journal
(1) The conscious knowledge of one's own character, feelings, motives, and desires, which can be enhanced through meditation, leading to better management of anxiety.[42]