In 'Searching for the Bull', the practitioner experiences a sense of incompleteness, embarking on a quest to discover their authentic self - amidst feelings of disorientation and uncertainty. This journey is driven by the recognition of a void within, prompting a search for true nature.

The sense of 'I', the ego - at the core of all experience - is the force that dominates our consciousness. With minimal awareness, our sense of identity blends flawlessly with the physical body, and we begin perceiving it as our all-encompassing 'self'. Our ego's primary concern lies in upholding the image it perpetuates of itself.

Mystical traditions like Bhakti offer invaluable wisdom on how to transcend the ego's stronghold. One of the most inspiring quotes comes from Ramana Maharshi - “The moment the ego- self tries to know itself, it changes its character” - highlighting the impermanence of this pervasive force. For many, the self-exploration process begins innocently: perhaps, through meditation during a visit to a tiny village hall, or even an abrupt life-changing event brought on by loss or hardship. This inquiry does not need to remain dormant: through it, we can uncover deeper truths.

As attention meanders away from the tenacious grasp of a physical 'self', we expose darker subconscious tendencies - insecurities, defensiveness or unconscious power struggles. We reveal behaviour patterns that manifest through selective identification: We cling to the familiar - be it habits or values - while neglecting traits at odds with that image. Thus are anxiety disorders born.

Still, despite the ego's hold, there is hope. Conscious beginnings toward meditative and mindful inquiry provide mere glimpses of increased awareness - yet, for many, that sliver of light suffices. Within these nascent practices lie the seeds of a revolution against automatic behaviors and conditioning.

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