Title: Seeking Inner Peace: A Personal Journey of Meditation and Self-Discovery

Ever since I was a child, I've been haunted by a single question: "Who am I?" People know me as Sandeep, a son, brother, father, cousin, or friend. But who am I, truly, at my core?

I recall being three years old, staring at my reflection in the mirror, and weeping at the thought that one day everyone I love, including myself, would be gone. This fear has persisted, and my curiosity about my identity has transformed into a constant internal noise.

In my quest for answers, I've explored numerous religions and the stories of enlightened individuals. One common thread runs through them all: the simple act of breathing in and breathing out.

The internet and autobiographies alike claim that focusing on our breath can control our thoughts and transport us to a different realm. But how can something as mundane as meditation achieve this, and if it does, is it real or merely a creation of the mind?

Some meditation practitioners liken the mind to a chatty monkey, suggesting that it's up to us whether we listen to its constant chatter or not. However, this concept perplexes me - who is the one speaking, and who is the one listening?

In my pursuit of inner peace, I've tried various meditation techniques, such as Isha Kriya from Sadhguru, but found it difficult to focus even after following all the steps. I've watched countless Kundalini videos and read about out-of-body experiences, yet I still struggle to find the answers I seek.

Despite my curiosity and desire for self-discovery, I wonder if not everyone is suited for meditation. Perhaps, in the end, I'm not the right person to embark on this journey.

Breaking Free from the Chains of the Mind

What happens when you gradually cease doing the things you once loved? When you feel trapped, weighed down by an unknown burden and the weight of responsibility? When you long to cry but can't, yearning to share your thoughts and feelings with someone, yet finding no one who truly understands? Instead of offering support, people become suspicious, driving you further into loneliness and despair. You continue living simply because you are breathing, a young body that won't allow you to perish, but you feel the urge to either escape the pain or end it all.

You recognize that you are unwell but don't know what to do. You strive to overcome your problems and illnesses, but at the end of the day, you feel defeated. You want to be happy and live freely, but you sense that an invisible rope binds you. You long to breathe peacefully, yet your breaths are filled with impatience. You wish to settle down, but instead feel as if you're being pulled into an unknown journey.

Your emotions seem limited to anxiety and anger, with happiness and joy fading into distant memories. You're drawn to spirituality and self-help but struggle to focus on these pursuits. You yearn for knowledge, but it eludes you. If this resonates with you, consider the following solutions:

1. Remember that death is not the end; it is simply a new beginning.
2. Keep in mind that while your mind may cause you pain, your soul remains untouched.
3. Don't assume that no one will help you; you must actively seek the help you need.
4. Your mind may deceive you, but focus on your soul, and it will guide you on the right path.
5. Don't dwell on guilt; acknowledge your karma and strive not to repeat past mistakes.
6. If someone is upset with your previous behavior, surprise them with a change in attitude. Be polite, and don't hesitate to apologize.
7. Learn to accept your mistakes and practice saying sorry.
8. Remember that you are part of a vast cosmic energy system known as God. Trust in God, regardless of your chosen faith.
9. Your body may be stardust, but your soul is the energy that illuminates the stars.
10. Live each day as if it were your last. Embrace every morning as if it were your final one and do everything your heart desires. Don't hold back – just do it.

By embracing these principles, you can begin to break free from the chains of the mind and embark on a journey toward inner peace, growth, and fulfillment.