In this episode of “5 Minutes,” Dr. Robert Svoboda explores Ahamkara, the Sanskrit concept of self-identification and its role in human existence.

The word Ahamkara comes from aham, meaning “I,” and kara, meaning “creator.” The first letter of the Sanskrit alphabet is A, and the final letter is Ma, which is associated with Lord Shiva, who brings all things to an end. In that sense, it represents the beginning and the end. Everything that you identify as “you,” your body, your thoughts, your memories, your preferences, and your experiences, is connected with Ahamkara.

Vimalananda used to describe Ahamkara as the power of self-identification. He was fond of saying that life is simply a memory. It may be a sweet memory or a bitter memory, but it is still a memory. The function of Ahamkara is to remember who you are. You live in a particular place, you have a particular family, a particular occupation, certain ideas, preferences, beliefs, and opinions. All of these contribute to the identity created by Ahamkara.

At a deeper level, Ahamkara is what identifies with all of your tissues and all parts of your organism. It reminds them that they must cooperate with one another so that you can continue to exist as an individual. When Ahamkara does not function properly, problems can arise because some part of the organism begins to act as though it does not need to cooperate with the rest.

A healthy Ahamkara identifies with you to the degree that is necessary while remaining flexible and open to change according to the changing environment. Many people speak about eliminating Ahamkara completely, but Vimalananda was very firm that if Ahamkara is completely removed, that would be the point at which you die because there would no longer be anything identifying with the body.

He repeatedly explained that Ahamkara is the same force that is also called Kundalini. When this force is engaged with identifying with ordinary existence, it is called Ahamkara. When it is moving back toward Supreme Reality, it is called Kundalini.

If you want to become a better bridge between Earth and the sky, between individuality and Supreme Reality, then you must first become properly established in your own body. This does not mean excessively pampering the body or mind, or giving them more attention than they require. It also does not mean neglecting them. The goal is to give the body and mind exactly the attention they need so they can perform their proper functions.

The purpose of the individual existence is to allow you to become increasingly open to Supreme Reality while remaining intact as an individual being.

Therefore, do not be afraid of Ahamkara, but also do not allow Ahamkara to take control of you and begin to possess and manipulate you. The goal is balance, so that this force can support your journey rather than obstruct it.