Who am I?

In this article, we explore the philosophical and scientific concepts of the soul, brain, body, mind, and spirit as well as how to care for the self.

You, reading this blog post, are a conscious entity. But what is consciousness? To some people, it's a metaphysical concept that can't be measured or proven scientifically. To others, consciousness is the result of electrical and chemical activity in the brain. Which perspective is right? And does it even matter? In this blog post, we'll explore the philosophical and scientific implications of consciousness, and answer the question: who am I and how do I care for myself?

First, let's focus on the basics...

What does metaphysics say I am?

According to metaphysical theories, your soul is the true "you" - your body is just a vehicle. In etymology, the word, "soul", comes from the Old English word, "sawol", which means "breath, spirit, life." So when we talk about the soul, we're talking about the life force (spirit and emotion) that animates your body.

While some people believe the soul may cease to exist when the body dies, Metaphysics implies your soul lives on, perhaps ascending to heaven or reincarnating into another person or animal.

What does science say I am?

For a long time, the scientific perspective has supported you are your brain. This may sound reductive, but it's supported by some evidence. For example, people with damage to certain areas of the brain can lose all sense of self. In other words, they don't know who they are anymore. This suggests that our sense of self is created by our brain activity.

However, there is a growing body of science that also supports that you are the mind and that mind of yours is larger than just your brain. For example, neuroscience studies have shown that people can have out-of-body experiences when their physical body is in danger (near death experience), on the edge of sleep or an awakened state, and while under the influence.

How do the brain and soul work together?

Questions regarding the soul and brain seem to be concerned with the same things: the seat of the self, identity, or at least our perception of it. The brain facilitates the mind in perceiving the soul and the state it is in. The soul, being the animating life-force it is, enables the brain to work. Of course, none of this could work without the vehicle of the body.

How does the concept of self impact health and wellness?

While some might say that whether you believe that you are a soul inhabiting a body or just your brain doesn't really matter in terms of your health and wellness, others would disagree. If you believe that you are just your brain, then you might be more likely to take care of your physical health, since that's what keeps your brain healthy. On the other hand, if you believe that you are a soul that will live on after your body dies, you might be less worried about your physical health, since it's only temporary.

At this point, you may be asking that very fateful question...

Am I a soul, a brain, a mind, or a body?

The answer, unfortunately, is that we don't really know. We can't prove either the metaphysical or scientific perspective with 100% certainty. We can say that with much observation, it would seem we are all of those things and that none can truly reflect the sum of our parts when operating in a vacuum. This would mean that caring for any one part of the self could benefit other aspects of the self. However, it also implies that no one aspect should be ignored.

For example, eating a healthy diet, exercising, and getting 8 hours of sleep is helpful to the body and therefore, the brain. When cared for, the body and brain can appropriately send signals to one another and become aware of the mind, its thoughts, and the state of the soul. Many theologians and philosophers say that caring for the body on its own cannot replace the care the soul requires though. Without "right" behaviors, you will inevitably suffer from avoidable stressors like strife, contention, shame, and guilt -- all of which can impact the mind, brain, and body.

How do you care for the self?

The answer to this question may be different for everyone. However, there are some basic things that can help most people considering the soul, brain-body, and mind.

How do you care for the soul:

• Spend time in nature

• Be around people you love and who make you happy

• Do things that make you feel good

• Forgive yourself and others

• Express gratitude

• Be accepting and non-judgmental

How do you care for the brain and body:

• Eat a healthy diet

• Exercise regularly

• Get enough sleep

• Reduce stress

• Challenge your mind

How do you care for the mind:

• Challenge your beliefs

• Be aware of your thoughts

• Practice meditation or mindfulness

• Visualize what you want

• Set goals and achieve them

Conclusion

Caring for the soul, brain, mind, and body can seem like a lot of work. However, incorporating even just a few of these things into your life can make a big difference. Remember, you are worth taking care of!

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