Unconscious Behavior and Subconscious Mind: Understanding and Mastery

Do you ever find yourself questioning the extent to which your actions are driven by conscious thought and how much is influenced by your subconscious mind? This conundrum has long fascinated scientists and philosophers alike, leading to extensive debates and discussions about the nature of human behavior.

Freud's Theory of the Unconscious

Carl Jung, a modern successor to Sigmund Freud, introduced the concept of the ldquo;unconsciousrdquo; as the field of the Other, as formulated by Freud. The unconscious, by this definition, encompasses those thoughts, emotions, and actions that operate outside of our conscious awareness. Contrary to popular belief, Freud and his followers did not propose the existence of a ldquo;subconsciousrdquo; separate from the unconscious. Instead, the unconscious is where our most fundamental and instinctual drives reside.

The Majority of Actions Occur Subconsciously

Research suggests that a staggering 95% of our actions are the result of thoughts generated by the subconscious mind. This means that most of the time, we are not fully aware of the actions we take. To illustrate, have you ever driven home from work without clearly remembering the actual journey? This illustrates the subconscious mind at work in ensuring that tasks like driving become almost automatic. Interestingly, if you become fully aware of these actions, the way they are executed might change, highlighting the dual nature of conscious and unconscious processes.

Furthermore, the subconscious mind influences a wide range of behaviors, including all movements, thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations. Here's a breakdown of the categories:

Categories of Subconscious Influence

ALL movements and non-movements ALL thinking ALL emotions/feelings ALL physical senses

In any given action, you may observe that it starts with conscious effort or deliberate will. However, as the action progresses, the conscious mind often steps back, and the subconscious takes over. This shift can be so seamless that you might not even be aware that you are performing the action subconsciously. For instance, speaking is one of the most mechanical actions, and once initiated, it becomes largely subconscious.

The Power of Subconscious Programming

Another intriguing aspect of the subconscious mind is its potential for re-programming. With conscious awareness and intention, you can indeed influence the subconscious mind. However, it's important to note that this process often requires repetitive and consistent effort. Just as actions are programmed into your subconscious, they can also be re-programmed when you introduce new information or habits.

The Subconscious as Gut Instinct

Think of your subconscious as your gut instinct. It is the source of your common sense and practical wisdom. Without the subconscious mind, you would lack the ability to make conscious decisions and solve problems effectively. For example, everyday actions like tying your shoes or riding a bicycle are so ingrained in your subconscious that you can perform them without even thinking about it.

Moreover, the subconscious stores all the experiences and memories from our past. This collection of data shapes our present behavior, often without us realizing it. Therefore, it's crucial to remain alert and mindful of the subconscious mind to avoid acting in ways that might not serve your best interests. Regular self-reflection and mindfulness practices can help you maintain awareness and manage the influence of the subconscious effectively.

Ascending to the Superconscious Mind

The ancient Indian practice of Kundalini Yoga emphasizes the concept of the three Nadis (channels) within the body:

Ida Nadi: Deals with the subconscious mind Pingala Nadi: Deals with the supracosmic mind Sushumna Nadi: Deals with the superconscious mind, the path for spiritual ascent

For spiritual growth, it is essential to elevate consciousness by moving through the Sushumna Nadi. Many people find that a visit to a Sahajayoga center, where sessions are free and side effects are minimal, can provide an opportunity to experience the Kundalini and achieve self-realization. Such centers offer a practical way to explore these concepts and potentially deepen your understanding of the subconscious and superconscious mind.

Understanding and harnessing the power of the subconscious mind can transform your life. Through conscious effort and mindfulness, you can influence and reprogram your subconscious, leading to more intentional and effective actions. Dive into exploration and reflection to unlock the full potential of your subconscious and realize your true capabilities.