The Deeper Journey of Yoga

Beyond the physical postures and breathwork, yoga is a journey inward—a path that leads to self-discovery, healing, and ultimately, self-realization. While many approach yoga for its physical or mental benefits, its true purpose runs far deeper. Yoga invites us to remember who we are beneath the layers of identity, fear, and conditioning. It offers a map to transcend the mind, awaken our full potential, and connect with the divine essence within. What follows is an exploration of that deeper purpose—the ultimate aim of yoga and the states of consciousness we pass through on the way to enlightenment.

The Ultimate Purpose: Self-Realization

We’ve only just begun to scratch the surface. The true purpose of yoga is self-realization—the process of fulfilling your highest potential. It’s about discovering the vastness of your inner world, healing every dimension of your being, and returning to your natural state of balance and peace.

Self-realization is often defined as the full expression of one’s potential. It’s an inner journey of observing, understanding, and transforming yourself. As you peel away layers of conditioning, limiting beliefs, and resistance, you begin to uncover your core self—free of ego, rooted in love. This process brings clarity, purpose, and deep alignment with your highest truth.

The Seven States of Consciousness

According to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, human consciousness unfolds in seven progressive stages:

1. Waking

2. Dreaming

3. Sleeping

4. Transcendental Consciousness

5. Cosmic Consciousness

6. God Consciousness

7. Unity Consciousness

   
   

Unity consciousness is the highest state of being—a profound sense of oneness with all life and creation. It transcends the physical, connecting you with the divine. Reaching this state requires deep inner work, discipline, and devotion. It’s often attained by spiritual masters and dedicated practitioners, but the path is open to all who seek it with sincerity.

The Role of Meditation in Transcendence

Meditation is the gateway to transcending the seven states of consciousness. Through consistent practice, you quiet the mental noise, move beyond your thoughts, and begin to dissolve the interference of the rational mind. In that space, you become one with source. You experience yourself as more than your thoughts, emotions, or identity. In yogic terms, this is Samadhi—a state of pure presence where the mind is still and the soul shines through. It’s where peace, unity, and bliss exist beyond the reach of ordinary awareness.

The Path to Enlightenment

At its highest level, yoga leads to enlightenment—liberation from the cycles of sufferance, attachment, and desire. It is a state of total freedom where the soul merges with the Divine. This is known as Nirvana, where your consciousness expands beyond the ego and into universal truth.

Once this state is reached, life takes on a new meaning. You become a channel for love, wisdom, and compassion—living not just for yourself, but to uplift and serve others. Giving becomes natural, and offering your light to the world becomes your purpose.

This space of love, light, and energy is always available—it’s who we truly are. By turning inward and dedicating ourselves to the practice, we begin to reconnect with that truth. Self-realization is not something you achieve; it’s something you remember.

with love,

~Maria xo