Adi Shankaracharya, an 8th-century Indian philosopher and theologian, composed a poem called the Nirvana Shatakam. Born in Kerala, India, Shankaracharya is a pivotal figure in Advaita Vedanta, a non-dualistic school of Hindu philosophy. His life's mission was to re-establish the ancient teachings of Vedanta and advocate for the unity of the self (Atman) with the ultimate reality (Brahman).

When I first heard a rendition of this song and understood the meaning, it brought joy to my heart and mind. Since the day I first heard it I have been singing it and wanting to share it with you. In the video on this page, is the first verse, which sets the stage for the very essence of it's meaning - that I am Consciousness!

The Nirvana Shatakam begins with the declaration "I am not the body, I am not the mind," a message of self-realization and transcendence of the ego. 

1. I Am Not the Body: Negate identification with the physical body. The body is a temporary...