To understand the concept of ego, or Ahankar, one must look deeply within their own life. Every sentient being lives with two primary thoughts: Iand and mine. From the moment these thoughts arise in our consciousness, they shape our entire existence, from the first breath to the last.
For the ego, these two words — Iand mine and mine — are enough. Tragically, much of human life is spent chasing after and nourishing these concepts. Only in our final moments may we realize that the notions of Iand mine and mine were never truly real.
The Origin of Ego
So, where does ego come from? The ego originates when a person begins to consider himself superior to others. To maintain this sense of superiority, he starts acquiring things — status, possessions, or power. Under the influence of this inflated self-image, the individual may indulge in unethical or harmful behaviors. Slowly, he builds thick walls around himself, isolating himself from others.
In the pursuit of proving his worth, he begins to distance himself from meaningful relationships, often leading to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress. Ironically, someone consumed by ego may also suffer from a lack of self-confidence, feeling bitter and disconnected inside. The ego creates a false belief that he is the only one who is correct, and the more isolated he becomes, the deeper he falls into despair.
How to Heal an Unhealthy Ego
The first step in healing an unhealthy ego is recognizing it. Realization is the key — once a person is aware of their ego, they can begin to address it. Without this recognition, it is impossible to change or heal the ego.
To counter ego’s negative effects, consider a reality check. Reflect on the many ambitious individuals from history — figures like Alexander the Great or Adolf Hitler — who sought to impose their superiority over others but ended up with nothing. Their ego-driven lives serve as a reminder that the race for supremacy leads to emptiness. Instead of striving for dominance, we must focus on living a peaceful and balanced life. Our only true responsibility lies in the present moment.
To truly live in the present, it is vital to understand the nature of our senses and how they influence us. Regular meditation and mindfulness practice are key in this process. By being mindful in everything we do — whether eating, working, or performing daily tasks — we can shift our awareness from the mind to the present moment, which helps loosen the grip of the ego.
Connecting with Nature
A vital part of overcoming ego is reconnecting with nature. The closer we are to nature, the less likely we are to fall victim to negative thinking. Whether through the “healing power” of nature or its calming effects, nature has a way of restoring balance. Spending time caring for plants and animals helps foster a sense of humility and connection, counteracting the isolation that ego often brings.
Living in harmony with nature teaches us lessons that can’t be found in books or lectures. When we align ourselves with the rhythms of the natural world, nature becomes our teacher, guiding us toward a deeper understanding of ourselves.
Serving Others with Humility
Another essential practice is selfless service, or seva. When you help others, it is important to do so with humility and without attachment to the role of “the doer.” By serving others with a humble attitude, you begin to dismantle the ego that seeks recognition and validation. When we act from a place of non-attachment, our awareness begins to break free from the ego’s influence, and we experience true freedom.
Conclusion
In summary, ego, or Ahankar, is the root of much human suffering. By recognizing and understanding the nature of the ego, we can start the process of healing. Practicing mindfulness, connecting with nature, and serving others selflessly are powerful ways to counter the negative effects of ego. As we free ourselves from the grip of I and mine, we can cultivate peace, compassion, and a deeper connection with the world around us.