A simple chair in a quiet corner becomes the launchpad for this inward journey. Carve out even five minutes each morning—before the day’s notifications hijack attention—and settle into a comfortable posture. Close the eyes, soften the shoulders, and let the usual mental chatter drift like autumn leaves on a pond.

Begin by asking, mentally, “Who am I?” No fancy terminology required—just that pointed question. When a thought arises (“I need coffee,” “Did I send that email?”), don’t wrestle with it. Notice it, then gently steer attention back to the source: the “I” that witnessed the thought. Think of it as peeling away layers of an onion until only the core remains.

Modern life brims with distractions—from the latest AI breakthroughs trending on every feed to nonstop news cycles—but this practice cuts to the chase. Whenever a mental knot forms, trace it back. Who is noticing this knot? That very act of noticing is the light of awareness slicing through darkness.

Consistency is key. A well-known mindfulness app might offer guided reminders, yet the real teacher sits within. Over time, the space between questions and answers widens, and thoughts begin to dissolve naturally, like mist under a rising sun. It’s not about becoming someone special; it’s about recognizing that the “special” was already here.

Let this inquiry accompany daily tasks—washing dishes, taking a stroll, or even queuing for a latte. Each time the mind strays, return to the one who’s aware of the stray. Little by little, the layers peel back on autopilot.

This approach isn’t a sprint but a gentle unfolding. Practice shines brightest when curiosity leads the way, and every moment offers an invitation to rest in the simplest, clearest self-awareness.