Consciousness is the most familiar thing in the world, since it's the experience of being you, and also one of the biggest mysteries in science and philosophy. If you're curious about exploring it but put off by jargon or wild claims, this beginner's guide will help you get started with your feet on the ground.
What is consciousness?
At its simplest, consciousness is awareness: the fact that there is something it feels like to be you, seeing, thinking and feeling. Scientists study how the brain produces or relates to it. Philosophers ask why it exists at all, which is known as the “hard problem” of consciousness. Spiritual traditions explore it directly, through practices that change how we experience it.
7 beginner-friendly ways to explore consciousness
1. Start with simple meditation
Sit for five to ten minutes and notice your breath. When thoughts arise, notice them without following them. You're learning to observe your own mind, the foundation of all consciousness exploration.
2. Notice the observer
During the day, pause and ask: “What is aware right now?” This simple question, found in many contemplative traditions, can shift how you relate to your thoughts.
3. Keep a dream journal
Dreams show consciousness working in a very different mode. See Are Your Dreams Sending Secret Messages?
4. Spend time in awe
Stargazing, music, art and nature can all create moments where your sense of self softens. Pay attention to how those moments feel.
5. Learn the science
Understanding how the brain shapes experience makes exploration richer, not less magical. Read The Neuroscience Behind Expanded Consciousness.
6. Explore the big questions
Is consciousness produced by the brain, or is it fundamental to reality? Ideas like panpsychism take the second possibility seriously. See Is the Universe Conscious?
7. Listen to experiencers
People who have had near-death experiences, deep meditative states or other unusual experiences offer fascinating reports. Hear them firsthand in our guide to near-death experience documentaries.
Explore without getting lost in the woo
- Stay grounded with sleep, movement and ordinary life. See Grounding Techniques.
- Separate experience from explanation. What you felt is real. What it means is open to question.
- Be skeptical of anyone selling certainty about the biggest questions in existence.
- Go slowly. Consistent small practice beats dramatic breakthroughs.
Start watching
On New Reality TV, Metaphysics 101 covers big ideas in short episodes, Consciousness First explores consciousness as the foundation of reality, and The Samadhi Films are a beautiful documentary series on awakening. All free on the web, Roku, Fire TV, iOS and Android.
Frequently asked questions
What is consciousness in simple terms?
Consciousness is awareness: the experience of seeing, thinking, feeling and being you.
How can a beginner explore consciousness?
Start with short daily meditation, notice your own awareness during the day, keep a dream journal, and learn a little of the science and philosophy behind it.
What is the hard problem of consciousness?
It's the question of why and how physical processes in the brain give rise to subjective experience at all, a problem philosopher David Chalmers named in the 1990s.