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Being Myself
Being Myself
is a contemplative exploration of the essential nature of our self.
Everyone has the sense of ‘being myself,' but not everyone knows their self clearly. In most cases, our sense of self is mixed up with the content of experience and, as a result, its natural condition of peace and happiness is veiled. Through investigation and analogy, the meditations in this collection take us back to our true nature again and again, until we begin to find our self naturally and effortlessly established there, as that. In time, experience loses its capacity to veil our being, and its innate peace and joy emerge from the background of experience.
* * *The Essence of Meditation Series presents meditations on the essential, non-dual understanding that lies at the heart of all the great religious and spiritual traditions, compiled from contemplations led by Rupert Spira at his meetings and retreats. This simple, contemplative approach, which encourages a clear seeing of one’s experience rather than any kind of effort or discipline, leads the reader to an experiential understanding of their own essential being and the peace and fulfilment that are inherent within it.
Everyone has the sense of ‘being myself,' but not everyone knows their self clearly. In most cases, our sense of self is mixed up with the content of experience and, as a result, its natural condition of peace and happiness is veiled. Through investigation and analogy, the meditations in this collection take us back to our true nature again and again, until we begin to find our self naturally and effortlessly established there, as that. In time, experience loses its capacity to veil our being, and its innate peace and joy emerge from the background of experience.
* * *The Essence of Meditation Series presents meditations on the essential, non-dual understanding that lies at the heart of all the great religious and spiritual traditions, compiled from contemplations led by Rupert Spira at his meetings and retreats. This simple, contemplative approach, which encourages a clear seeing of one’s experience rather than any kind of effort or discipline, leads the reader to an experiential understanding of their own essential being and the peace and fulfilment that are inherent within it.
144 pages, Paperback
Published September 1, 2021
About the author
Rupert Spira
63 books590 followersFrom an early age Rupert Spira was deeply interested in the nature of reality. At the age of seventeen he learnt to meditate, and began a twenty-year period of study and practice in the classical Advaita Vedanta tradition under the guidance of Dr. Francis Roles and Shantananda Saraswati, the Shankaracharya of the north of India. During this time he immersed himself in the teachings of P. D. Ouspensky, Krishnamurti, Rumi, Ramana Maharshi, Nisargadatta and Robert Adams, until he met his teacher, Francis Lucille, in 1997. Francis introduced Rupert to the Direct Path teachings of Atmananda Krishna Menon, the Tantric tradition of Kashmir Shaivism (which he had received from his teacher, Jean Klein), and, more importantly, directly indicated to him the true nature of experience. Rupert lives in the UK and holds regular meetings and retreats in Europe and the USA.
www.rupertspira.com
www.rupertspira.com
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
March 12, 2022
4.5 it’s very challenging to rate this as I wouldn’t want to be seen as rating his philosophy. This is my fifth book by Spira and the teaching is direct and easy to understand, though I admit to some confusion in the beginning of starting my reading journey with his books, especially with the teaching about God in you, connecting the “I” of God with the “I” of self being one and the same. I still struggle with the ‘knowing’ of this teaching. But this ground covers the same ground as in previous books and of his books I think Being Aware of Being Aware was the very best for me and a good starting point for Spira’s teachings. This one would be a good starter as well, I suppose, and it’s likely that had I read this first I may have been blown away. Still, very good stuff, and very accessible, so I highly recommend to someone first approaching his teachings.
November 27, 2021
An Exceptional Insight
After reading this and thinking on the depth of its contents, I struggle to speak or think. Indeed I don't wish to do either, but rather rest in love and joy.
After reading this and thinking on the depth of its contents, I struggle to speak or think. Indeed I don't wish to do either, but rather rest in love and joy.
September 2, 2021
If you’ve been seeking the answers to reality or existence in any way during your life you've probably found yourself contemplating many philosophies or spiritual belief systems, looking for answers, or at the least, a guiding path.
The problem with many philosophical tenants and spiritual information is that it can be confusing, wrapped in too much metaphor, or downright dogmatic. The true essence of a belief system or philosophy can then become almost too complex to digest and you find yourself seeking more information so that you can unwind the information you’ve already started to process. Furthermore, many of today’s spiritual teachers do nothing but outline how you need to “work” or “change” or “level up” or buy a new product to “get” to the truth. Twisting and spinning in so many directions the seeker finds themself further lost than when they initially arrived. This is why there are thousands of spiritual teachers these days. Throw a dart at the internet and you'll land on 3. Just enough confusion to keep you coming back for more understanding.
Thankfully the world has Rupert Spira.
Rupert Spira, a teacher of the non-dual path (Advaita Vedanta) to self-inquiry, is one of the most eloquent and adept teachers of spiritual ideas for the modern mind. While much of his teaching is in the form of retreats and lectures, he has also written a handful of books to accompany his in-person work. His most recent book, Being Myself, Volume II of a series on Meditation, is about the most concise and simple “explanations” of what it means to connect to spirit.
Spira deftly explains all of the things that you precisely DO NOT have to do to become spiritual. It is awareness itself. We are that awareness and we just have to turn to see it clearly.
“Our self lies at the source of attention; it can never be its object. It is by resting or relaxing our attention that the recognition of our self is accomplished, never by directing or disciplining it.”
Seeing your awareness does not require you to be special and it doesn't require a lifetime of work or magical hijinx. It is just, simply, who we are. Once you see this and gently remind yourself to never stop seeing this, you will by default, rest in the clear and simple happiness of being. There is nothing more to it than that.
From these adept pointings, Spira also wisely points out some of the misunderstandings that many people have regarding the idea of Enlightenment. This is a great thing! So many teachings on religion and spirituality would have us all believe that the ultimate goal of enlightenment is always out of reach or that we aren't yet worthy of achieving it. Not so, says Spira, be and you are. That simple.
This book is mostly presented in gentle terms with an agnostic appeal. However, there is some mention and naming of God and that may dissuade some readers. If you can replace the mention of God with your preferred term for the mystery of reality, you will be fine and the larger meaning of the text will still be abundantly clear.
Honestly, if you had to place only ONE spiritual book on your shelf, to encapsulate the most over-reaching of all spiritual philosophies, this book could be it. One and done.
The problem with many philosophical tenants and spiritual information is that it can be confusing, wrapped in too much metaphor, or downright dogmatic. The true essence of a belief system or philosophy can then become almost too complex to digest and you find yourself seeking more information so that you can unwind the information you’ve already started to process. Furthermore, many of today’s spiritual teachers do nothing but outline how you need to “work” or “change” or “level up” or buy a new product to “get” to the truth. Twisting and spinning in so many directions the seeker finds themself further lost than when they initially arrived. This is why there are thousands of spiritual teachers these days. Throw a dart at the internet and you'll land on 3. Just enough confusion to keep you coming back for more understanding.
Thankfully the world has Rupert Spira.
Rupert Spira, a teacher of the non-dual path (Advaita Vedanta) to self-inquiry, is one of the most eloquent and adept teachers of spiritual ideas for the modern mind. While much of his teaching is in the form of retreats and lectures, he has also written a handful of books to accompany his in-person work. His most recent book, Being Myself, Volume II of a series on Meditation, is about the most concise and simple “explanations” of what it means to connect to spirit.
Spira deftly explains all of the things that you precisely DO NOT have to do to become spiritual. It is awareness itself. We are that awareness and we just have to turn to see it clearly.
“Our self lies at the source of attention; it can never be its object. It is by resting or relaxing our attention that the recognition of our self is accomplished, never by directing or disciplining it.”
Seeing your awareness does not require you to be special and it doesn't require a lifetime of work or magical hijinx. It is just, simply, who we are. Once you see this and gently remind yourself to never stop seeing this, you will by default, rest in the clear and simple happiness of being. There is nothing more to it than that.
From these adept pointings, Spira also wisely points out some of the misunderstandings that many people have regarding the idea of Enlightenment. This is a great thing! So many teachings on religion and spirituality would have us all believe that the ultimate goal of enlightenment is always out of reach or that we aren't yet worthy of achieving it. Not so, says Spira, be and you are. That simple.
This book is mostly presented in gentle terms with an agnostic appeal. However, there is some mention and naming of God and that may dissuade some readers. If you can replace the mention of God with your preferred term for the mystery of reality, you will be fine and the larger meaning of the text will still be abundantly clear.
Honestly, if you had to place only ONE spiritual book on your shelf, to encapsulate the most over-reaching of all spiritual philosophies, this book could be it. One and done.
February 15, 2022
Grateful
To try to capture what Rupert Spira‘s books do for me would be to try to capture the definition of God in words. It just simply can’t be done. The closest I can get to a description is that I have a sense of having found my true home, the ultimate place of my serenity, Heaven. It is amazing how something so profound is really so simple. Something seemingly so far out of our grasp is actually right here with us, in us. I am thankful to Rupert Spira for sharing such simple and beautiful wisdom and truth.
To try to capture what Rupert Spira‘s books do for me would be to try to capture the definition of God in words. It just simply can’t be done. The closest I can get to a description is that I have a sense of having found my true home, the ultimate place of my serenity, Heaven. It is amazing how something so profound is really so simple. Something seemingly so far out of our grasp is actually right here with us, in us. I am thankful to Rupert Spira for sharing such simple and beautiful wisdom and truth.
December 14, 2021
The simpler way to find your inner self and rest in its infinite peace. Simplicity is reflected in the writing and narrative. Everyone can easily read this bold book, just as everyone has the sense of the “I am”. God, love, finite and finite are addressed, and the perennial philosophy solved.
Read
April 22, 2025An essential read for mystics and spiritualists.
Rupert Spira demystifies enlightenment as something that’s not as far-fetched. He explains that God is not something we search for. God is the very essence of who we are. It’s way too close to who we are that we tend to overlook the ‘I Am’ within us. Either gradually or instantly, it becomes something that’s so obvious… like DUH. I’m already all that IS.
The books in this series build on each other. It’s repetitive but for good reason. We need to hear the truth multiple times to be able to get it.
Everyone will resonate with Rupert’s writing on different levels. It’s always a good idea to revisit these books more than once. The words might seem to go over your head the first few reads… but in time, everything clicks. And when it clicks, you don’t need to read any further. 10/10 highly recommend.
Rupert Spira demystifies enlightenment as something that’s not as far-fetched. He explains that God is not something we search for. God is the very essence of who we are. It’s way too close to who we are that we tend to overlook the ‘I Am’ within us. Either gradually or instantly, it becomes something that’s so obvious… like DUH. I’m already all that IS.
The books in this series build on each other. It’s repetitive but for good reason. We need to hear the truth multiple times to be able to get it.
Everyone will resonate with Rupert’s writing on different levels. It’s always a good idea to revisit these books more than once. The words might seem to go over your head the first few reads… but in time, everything clicks. And when it clicks, you don’t need to read any further. 10/10 highly recommend.
December 4, 2022
Truly Transformational
This is a life changing read. However, it's depths, yet simplicity caused me to read and pause, sometimes for several days to fully embrace the revelations revealed in its passages. May your eyes be fully opened to the peace and glory that is you.
This is a life changing read. However, it's depths, yet simplicity caused me to read and pause, sometimes for several days to fully embrace the revelations revealed in its passages. May your eyes be fully opened to the peace and glory that is you.
August 1, 2025
Rupert Spira’s Being Myself serves as a natural extension of his earlier work, Being Aware of Being Aware. For readers diving into Spira’s books consecutively, this one may feel somewhat repetitive, echoing similar themes and ideas. However, this does not detract from its value as a profound and accessible guide to non-dualism.
The book shines as a devotional resource, with short, digestible chapters perfect for morning reflection or bedtime contemplation. Spira’s ability to articulate the principles of non-dualism in clear, modern language remains unmatched. His use of vivid analogies makes complex concepts approachable, even for those new to the subject.
One of the standout features of Being Myself is Spira’s skillful integration of exoteric religious perspectives. He weaves in quotes and insights from Sufi poets like Rumi, Christian and Jewish scriptures, and Vedic (yogic/Hindu) philosophy, creating a rich tapestry that bridges diverse spiritual traditions. This inclusive approach deepens the book’s appeal and underscores the universality of non-dual teachings.
While the repetition with Being Aware of Being Aware keeps it from a perfect score, Being Myself is still a great and easy read. It’s an excellent choice for anyone seeking a concise, thought-provoking exploration of self-awareness and non-dualism, whether as a standalone text or a companion to Spira’s other works.
The book shines as a devotional resource, with short, digestible chapters perfect for morning reflection or bedtime contemplation. Spira’s ability to articulate the principles of non-dualism in clear, modern language remains unmatched. His use of vivid analogies makes complex concepts approachable, even for those new to the subject.
One of the standout features of Being Myself is Spira’s skillful integration of exoteric religious perspectives. He weaves in quotes and insights from Sufi poets like Rumi, Christian and Jewish scriptures, and Vedic (yogic/Hindu) philosophy, creating a rich tapestry that bridges diverse spiritual traditions. This inclusive approach deepens the book’s appeal and underscores the universality of non-dual teachings.
While the repetition with Being Aware of Being Aware keeps it from a perfect score, Being Myself is still a great and easy read. It’s an excellent choice for anyone seeking a concise, thought-provoking exploration of self-awareness and non-dualism, whether as a standalone text or a companion to Spira’s other works.
September 7, 2021
Perhaps the most valuable advice I’ve heard in my adult life is this quote from Rupert Spira, author of Being Myself:
“The discovery that peace, happiness and love are ever-present within our own being, and completely available at every moment of experience, under all conditions, is the most important discovery anyone can make.”
In Being Myself, Spira helps us see that here and now – the only place and moment we can ever live in – is the limitless field whose only qualities are unbreakable peace, irreducible happiness, and unconditional love. Spira guides us to seeing the irrefutable truth of this through our own experience rather than as the result of any adopted belief.
To gain a felt understanding of our shared fundamental being is the permanent antidote to Thoreau’s pronouncement that the bulk of humanity “lead lives of quiet desperation.”
As Spira explains at the conclusion of one of the eight contemplative meditations comprised by this invaluable volume:
“No one becomes enlightened. Our being is simply relieved of an imaginary limitation and, as a result, its natural condition of peace and happiness shines.”
“The discovery that peace, happiness and love are ever-present within our own being, and completely available at every moment of experience, under all conditions, is the most important discovery anyone can make.”
In Being Myself, Spira helps us see that here and now – the only place and moment we can ever live in – is the limitless field whose only qualities are unbreakable peace, irreducible happiness, and unconditional love. Spira guides us to seeing the irrefutable truth of this through our own experience rather than as the result of any adopted belief.
To gain a felt understanding of our shared fundamental being is the permanent antidote to Thoreau’s pronouncement that the bulk of humanity “lead lives of quiet desperation.”
As Spira explains at the conclusion of one of the eight contemplative meditations comprised by this invaluable volume:
“No one becomes enlightened. Our being is simply relieved of an imaginary limitation and, as a result, its natural condition of peace and happiness shines.”
September 1, 2022
Rupert Spira has a gift for being able to talk about the ineffable -- the essence of our Being. He has a gift through the space between his words to help readers connect to what is most essential in us all. And it's hard to ever be reminded too much of these truths. The chapters are lovely meditations on their own, and can be savored one at a time.
If you're new to non-dual teachings, Rupert Spira is a lovely guide. If you're a long-time student of non-dual teachings, there's nothing "new" ... but it's also always "new".
If you're new to non-dual teachings, Rupert Spira is a lovely guide. If you're a long-time student of non-dual teachings, there's nothing "new" ... but it's also always "new".
June 16, 2021
It was an ok read. I will be honest, I did not enjoy reading it and was having a hard time finishing. I found the style of writing not enjoyable and the information did not engage me. I have read many meditation and spiritual books that I found suited me better than this one. This is just a personal opinion and as unique individuals another person may find this book enjoyable and a pleasant read.
February 1, 2025
Een verademing. Dit bundeltje liefde.
Een eerlijke verkenning naar 'wie ben ik'?
Rupert Spira heeft taal om te wijzen naar dat wat niet gekend kan worden maar altijd ís. Met een veelheid aan metaforen en kleuren wijst hij naar je eigenste eigen, zoals Jan van Delden dat altijd zo mooi wist te verwoorden. Dit is non-dualiteit in de traditie van Ramana Maharshi en Krishnamurti. Lief en direct.
Sat Chit Ananda.
Een eerlijke verkenning naar 'wie ben ik'?
Rupert Spira heeft taal om te wijzen naar dat wat niet gekend kan worden maar altijd ís. Met een veelheid aan metaforen en kleuren wijst hij naar je eigenste eigen, zoals Jan van Delden dat altijd zo mooi wist te verwoorden. Dit is non-dualiteit in de traditie van Ramana Maharshi en Krishnamurti. Lief en direct.
Sat Chit Ananda.
September 14, 2023
Concise and very clear. No need to connect or find yourself. Essentially you ARE.
There is something quite profound in his teachings. Even though I don’t entirely agree with everything he shares (having consumed Buddhist a lot of ideas on the self), I still very appreciate his reasoning and approach.
There is something quite profound in his teachings. Even though I don’t entirely agree with everything he shares (having consumed Buddhist a lot of ideas on the self), I still very appreciate his reasoning and approach.
April 8, 2025
Repeats familiar spiritual core concepts in a meaningful way. How the word 'I' is talked about gave cause for reflection - that the 'I am' is the fundamental sense of TRUE SELF, before labels or qualities are added creating a LIMITED SELF. I also appreciated the cinema analogy illustrating the relationship between awareness and experience.
December 5, 2021
A good read
Much closer to the truth than many books I've read. The authors style is easy to read and very engaging
Much closer to the truth than many books I've read. The authors style is easy to read and very engaging
December 25, 2021
Brilliant. Simple. Beautiful.
A masterpiece.
Sat. Chit. Ananda.
A masterpiece.
Sat. Chit. Ananda.
January 21, 2022
True guide.
August 31, 2022
A great help in my attempts to get into meditation. This really moved me forward.
September 10, 2022
I read this short book a couple pages at a time. Rupert Spira’s clear and compelling non-dualistic teachings.
November 19, 2022
Very interesting. Not sure if the main point required an entire book.
April 23, 2023
Absolutely fantastic book on the nature of non duality. Short sweet and powerful. I would recommend to anyone interested in the subject.
September 15, 2023
one of the best readings
I am thankful for this book. Great words each of them. Reading and pausing in between gradually reveals myself to myself. Thank you!
I am thankful for this book. Great words each of them. Reading and pausing in between gradually reveals myself to myself. Thank you!
January 2, 2024
One of those spiritual books which actually induces the experience it is describing; or, alternatively, one could say that reading it is in itself a spiritual experience.
May 4, 2025
Straight to the Truth
All you'll need if you're ready for it!
Simple if you are at the stage where this Truth is obvious.
All you'll need if you're ready for it!
Simple if you are at the stage where this Truth is obvious.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews