IN THIS LESSON

Lesson Eight: What is Real? – From Ego to Heart

What is real? So much of what we believe about ourselves, our lives, and our worth has been shaped by illusions we created in childhood to survive. These stories, born from the ego, helped us navigate a world that didn’t always feel safe. But as adults, these same illusions often keep us stuck in patterns of fear, self-doubt, and disconnection.

This lesson is about learning to discern between the voice of the ego and the whispers of the heart. The ego shouts, driven by fear and the need to protect. The heart whispers gently, guiding us toward truth, love, and alignment. When we move from the noise of our thoughts to the stillness of our heart, we begin to live from a place of authenticity and deep inner connection.

Are you ready to let go of the illusions and listen to the whispers of your heart?

Journal Prompts for What is Real?

  1. The Ego’s Stories:

    • What beliefs or stories from my childhood have shaped how I see myself today?

    • How do these stories protect me, and how do they hold me back?

  2. The Heart’s Whispers:

    • When have I felt the gentle guidance of my heart? What did it feel like?

    • What is my heart whispering to me right now?

  3. Ego vs. Heart:

    • How does the voice of my ego sound compared to the voice of my heart?

    • What practices help me quiet the ego and tune into my heart?

  4. Letting Go of Illusions:

    • What illusions or false identities have I been clinging to for safety or acceptance?

    • What would it feel like to release these and embrace my true self?

  5. Defining What’s Real:

    • What does “real” mean to me?

    • How can I live more authentically from my heart?

Partner Reflection Prompts

  1. Ego in Our Relationship:

    • How do the stories we created in childhood show up in our relationship?

    • How can we support each other in moving from ego-based reactions to heart-centered responses?

  2. Listening to Each Other’s Hearts:

    • When was the last time we truly listened to the deeper truths within each other?

    • How can we create more space for heart-centered conversations?

  3. Releasing Illusions Together:

    • Are there shared illusions or expectations we’ve created in our relationship that no longer serve us?

    • How can we let go of these and realign with what’s real and true for us?

  4. Guided by the Heart:

    • How does it feel when we make decisions together from a place of love and trust rather than fear or ego?

    • What would it look like to consistently choose the heart’s guidance in our relationship?

  5. Creating a Safe Space:

    • How can we ensure our relationship feels like a safe space to release old patterns and step into authenticity?

    • What specific actions can we take to support this shift?

Somatic & Embodied Practices

  1. Ego-to-Heart Breathwork (Individual)

    • Sit comfortably with one hand on your forehead (ego) and the other on your chest (heart).

    • Inhale deeply, imagining the breath moving from your head to your heart.

    • Exhale slowly, releasing tension from your mind and opening your heart.

    • Repeat for several minutes, focusing on the transition from ego to heart.

  2. Whispers of the Heart Meditation (Individual)

    • Close your eyes and sit in stillness.

    • Ask your heart: “What truth do you want me to hear today?”

    • Wait for a whisper, an image, or a feeling. Write down what arises after the meditation.

  3. Heart Mirror Practice (Partner)

    • Sit facing your partner, eyes closed. Place one hand over your own heart and one hand over your partner’s heart.

    • Breathe deeply together, tuning into the connection between your hearts.

    • After a few minutes, open your eyes and share what your heart feels or wants to express.

  4. Release Through Movement (Individual)

    • Begin standing and imagine the illusions of the ego as a heavy cloak draped over you.

    • Start moving your body, gently shaking or stretching, as if shedding this cloak.

    • Finish by standing tall, feeling lighter and more connected to your true self.

  5. Heart-Listening Walk (Individual or Partner)

    • Take a slow, mindful walk in nature.

    • With each step, focus on listening to your heart’s rhythm and quieting the noise of the mind.

    • If with a partner, take turns sharing what comes up as you connect with your heart.

Mantras for What is Real?

  • “I release the illusions of my ego and step into my truth.”

  • “My heart whispers the truth I need to hear.”

  • “I trust the quiet voice of my inner wisdom.”

  • “What is real is love, connection, and authenticity.”

  • “I am safe to listen to my heart and follow its guidance.”