What Is Awareness?

And why, without it, we are not truly alive

"An aware person is a free person. Someone who operates on autopilot remains asleep, even with their eyes open."

— From the lectures of Rami Bleckt

We frequently hear expressions such as: “Be more mindful,” “Live in the moment,” “Be present here and now”...

However, what do these phrases truly signify? What does it genuinely mean to live with awareness?

In Eastern psychology, awareness is not just a trendy concept. It is a key — a key to true freedom. Freedom from fear. From the past. From the expectations of others.

Awareness is not about “trying to be good”

Many people confuse awareness with control — with trying to become a perfect version of themselves. But in Vedic philosophy, awareness begins with observation. It is a connection to your true self. To the witness within. To the soul.

“True awareness is not mental alertness. It is the awakening of the soul, observing the mind, the body, and its roles without becoming attached to them.” — David Frawley

Awareness ensures that you don't become overwhelmed by your emotions, roles, or thoughts. It means you retain your sense of self, even during challenging times.

An example: two ways to live through the same situation:

Scenario A (on autopilot): Someone addresses you rudely, which causes you to feel hurt. You think, "How dare they?" You become withdrawn, feel offended, discuss it with a friend, and occasionally find it difficult to sleep at night after such incidents.

Scenario B (with awareness): In the same situation, you notice the pain increasing. You stop and reflect: “Why did that affect me? When have I felt unwanted before?” You don't immediately react. Instead, you take a moment to breathe.

You decide how to respond—rather than reacting automatically.

That's it. It's simple. A slight change... And now you're no longer a victim of the situation.

You become its creator.

Why is awareness so crucial?

Without awareness, we are not making choices. Instead of acting, we are reacting. Our lives are influenced by past wounds, fears, and habitual patterns.

“Awareness is the doorway beyond the mind, into the realm of the higher intelligence — buddhi. Only from there can we see life clearly.”— Vadim Tuneev

Benefits of Awareness:

Awareness provides inner peace and clarity, fostering deep and genuine relationships, and liberates you from recurring, painful patterns.

It enables you to connect with your soul and pursue your dharma, what truly matters.

Awareness anchors you in the present moment, preventing fixation on the past or future.

Awareness is a journey, not a final goal. There's no need to achieve "enlightenment" today.

However, you can begin with simple steps:

• Observe your reactions.

• Avoid self-judgment.

• Take a breath before responding.

• Reflect, “Why did I react this way?”

• Make a choice — don't repeat past actions.

I hope you gain greater awareness in your life, enabling you to take action rather than just react.