Opening the Door to Awareness: An Invitation

Hi friends! I am so happy that you are here to join me on this exploration of consciousness and journey of self-discovery.

I have often struggled with the question of who I am. If you are here, I imagine you have faced the a similar struggle.

I spent much of my life searching for a sense of belonging, attempting to define myself through interests and hobbies, traits and characteristics. But with so many seemingly conflicting facets of my identity, I often felt lost – like I had to choose one path while hiding the other parts of myself. I shaped myself to it into expectations, showcasing only the parts that aligned with stereotypes and societal standards, while quietly suppressing the aspects that didn’t.

This search for identity ultimately led me inward. As I turned my gaze towards the depths of my own being, I found not just myself, but bigger questions – about reality, purpose, potential, and the very nature of existence. These questions led me to consciousness.

I came across the book Acid Test by ­­­­­­­­Tom Shroder, which explores the therapeutic potential of psychedelics in the treatment of PTSD. This book radically shifted my perspective, opening my mind to novel ideas about consciousness and the transformative potential of altered states. Inspired by this new insight, and I immersed myself in research on consciousness, psychedelics, psychology, physics, and transformation through altered states.  

What began as curiosity grew into passion. Before I knew it, I had returned to school to explore these topics on a professional level. I am currently pursuing my PhD in Psychology, specializing in Consciousness, Spirituality, and Integrative Health. My research focuses on psychological transformation through non-ordinary states of consciousness, specifically those accessed by MDMA. Through this work, I have learned so much – not only about consciousness itself but also about the vast, often overlooked potential for healing, growth, and self-discovery that thee states can offer.  

Through my own self-exploration, I have discovered that my identity was never defined by labels, roles, or definitions. The things I once clung to as the essence of “me” were never fixed at all. In releasing these attachments, I have come to see that my true Self – our true Self – is unbounded, not limited by external constructs, but rather an infinite consciousness. I am not these labels, definitions, thoughts, or experiences, but rather the one who is aware of them. At my core, I am pure awareness, pure consciousness – the observer. I am the Universe experiencing itself through the unique lens of my existence. And through this shared consciousness, we are all intrinsically connected.

Threads of Consciousness is a space to dive deep into the nature of consciousness, exploring different states, ways to access them, and what they reveal about the true nature and infinite potential of the Self. Each post will include a journal prompt to encourage deeper reflection into the depths of Self and consciousness. This week, I invite you to reflect on the question: Who am I beyond my interests, roles, and labels? If I stripped away everything I’ve used to define myself, what remains? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments or simply use this as a personal journal prompt to deepen your own self-exploration.

I hope that by joining me on this journey, you, too, may begin to unravel the threads of your own consciousness.

Welcome!