Teachings of Ramana Maharishi: How to Practice Self-Inquiry
Ramana Maharishi, one of India's most revered spiritual teachers, emphasized self-inquiry (Atma Vichara) as the direct path to self-realization. He taught that the root of all suffering is the false identification with the ego and the body. The core practice he recommended is asking “Who am I?”, a question that leads the seeker beyond the mind to the realization of the true self.
If you’re interested in applying Ramana Maharishi’s teachings in your life, this guide will provide a step-by-step approach to self-inquiry.
Step 1: Understanding the Purpose of Self-Inquiry
The aim of self-inquiry is to shift your focus from external experiences to the inner self. According to Ramana Maharishi:
The ego is merely a collection of thoughts and beliefs.
Self-inquiry dissolves these thoughts by bringing awareness to their source.
The true self is beyond the mind, body, and emotions.
By questioning the very foundation of the ego, we move closer to self-realization.
Step 2: Setting the Right Environment for Self-Inquiry
While self-inquiry can be done anywhere, beginners often find it helpful to create a conducive environment:
Choose a quiet place free from distractions.
Sit comfortably in a relaxed but alert posture.
Close your eyes to minimize external disturbances.
Although the practice can be done during daily activities, starting with dedicated meditation time is beneficial.
Step 3: The Core Practice – Asking “Who Am I?”
Turn Your Attention Inward: Instead of engaging with thoughts, observe their source.
Ask “Who am I?”: Each time a thought arises, question who is experiencing the thought.
Do Not Seek Intellectual Answers: Avoid responding with concepts like “I am the body” or “I am the soul.” Instead, remain in the feeling of the question.
Let Thoughts Dissolve: As you inquire, thoughts lose their power and fade away.
Rest in Awareness: When no answer arises, stay in the silent awareness beyond the mind.
This process gradually erodes the ego, revealing the infinite, formless self.
Step 4: Handling Challenges in Self-Inquiry
Beginners often encounter difficulties such as:
Overthinking – The mind tries to provide answers; gently redirect attention to the source of thought.
Restlessness – If distractions arise, acknowledge them and return to inquiry.
Frustration – Progress may seem slow; patience and persistence are key.
Self-inquiry is not an intellectual exercise but a deep inner investigation. Over time, it becomes effortless.
Step 5: Integrating Self-Inquiry into Daily Life
Ramana Maharishi emphasized that self-inquiry should not be limited to meditation. To integrate it into daily life:
Whenever emotions arise, ask: Who is feeling this?
While making decisions, inquire: Who is the thinker?
In moments of stress, silently reflect: Who is experiencing this?
With practice, self-inquiry becomes a continuous awareness, leading to the dissolution of the ego and realization of the self.
Conclusion
Self-inquiry, as taught by Ramana Maharishi, is a direct and powerful method for self-realization. By persistently questioning “Who am I?”, the illusion of the ego dissolves, revealing the unchanging, eternal self. Whether practiced in meditation or daily life, self-inquiry offers a path to profound peace and enlightenment.
Start today—turn inward, ask the fundamental question, and discover your true nature beyond the mind.
