Just What Exactly Is Your Higher Self?

Do you keep hearing the term “Higher Self” and wonder what exactly it means? You’re not alone.

For a spiritual term that gets mentioned so often, the concept can feel surprisingly vague. Depending on who you ask, it might refer to your soul, your intuition, your divine essence…or even a more perfect, higher-dimensional ‘doppelgänger’ version of yourself.

Confusing? Absolutely. But also fascinating.

So, let’s explore and unpack what the Higher Self actually is.

From my own perspective, I like to think of the Higher Self as my soul’s GPS. For me it is an ever-present, intuitive inner voice gently guiding me toward choices and paths that align with my spiritual evolution.

Like an inner GPS, it may repeat itself when I’m off track, whispering that familiar message: “Recalculating route.” Sometimes, we don’t want to hear it, but when we listen, life flows more smoothly.

Our bodies also serve as translators for the Higher Self. That “gut feeling” when something is off? That’s your Higher Self warning you.

That heart-flutter of excitement when a choice feels right? That’s your inner GPS saying “yes.” When we treat the Higher Self like a best friend, who is loving, honest, and always rooting for us, we begin to live more authentically.

Over the years, I’ve come to recognize my Higher Self as a quiet, consistent presence that urges me to become more of who I truly am. It has helped me navigate challenges, offered insight during moments of uncertainty, and nudged me toward experiences that ultimately helped me grow.

The Higher Self is whispering to you softly in the silence between your thoughts ~ Deepak Chopra

The Higher Self In Spiritual Traditions

The beauty of the Higher Self is that it’s not a new concept, because it is found in various forms across many spiritual traditions.

Understanding the Higher Self across traditions also allows us to honor the diversity of spiritual expression. While the language may differ, the essence is the same: there is a part of us that remembers who we truly are.

THEOSOPHY

Helena Blavatsky, co-founder of the Theosophical Society, described the Higher Self as *Atma*, the “inseparable ray of the Universe and oneself.” In Theosophy, the Higher Self is the eternal aspect of the soul, distinct from the temporary personality or ego.

HINDUISM

In Hindu philosophy, the Higher Self is referred to as Atman, the eternal soul or spirit that is ultimately identical with Brahman, the universal consciousness. Realizing this unity is the goal of spiritual liberation (moksha).

BUDDHISM

Buddhism generally avoids the idea of a fixed, permanent self, but some Mahayana interpretations include the concept of Buddha-nature: a pure, awakened essence within each being that mirrors the Higher Self concept.

CHRISTIAN MYSTICISM

Christian mystics often refer to the Higher Self as the “Christ within” or the divine spark. St. Teresa of Ávila and Meister Eckhart described deep inner communion with God that mirrors connecting to the Higher Self or an aspect of the soul that knows the Divine directly.

KABBALAH 

In Kabbalah, the soul has multiple levels. The highest, Yechidah, represents unity with the Divine and is the deepest layer of the self, akin to the Higher Self. It’s the part of the soul that remains in constant connection with the Divine.

INDIGENOUS & SHAMANIC TRADITIONS

Many Indigenous cultures believe in spirit guides, ancestral wisdom, and a higher consciousness that speaks through dreams, nature, and inner knowing. These teachings often recognize a wise inner being or “spirit self” guiding one’s path.

NEW AGE & METAPHYSICAL TEACHINGS

Modern spiritual perspectives often describe the Higher Self as a multidimensional aspect of our consciousness. It is viewed as an ‘oversoul‘ or higher-dimensional being that we are always connected to. It’s seen as the source of intuition, synchronicity, and soul guidance.

As you meditate and become more spiritually attuned, you can better discern and recognize the sound of your higher Self or the voice of God speaking to you through words, images, and sensations ~ Jack Canfield

Your Relationship With The Higher Self

No matter which tradition resonates with you, the key is to cultivate a personal relationship with your Higher Self. Start by listening to your inner nudges. Journal after meditation. Pay attention to synchronicities. Most of all, treat your Higher Self with the same trust and reverence you would give a wise, loving elder.

When we tune into the Higher Self, we begin to make choices from a place of soul alignment rather than fear or habit. We become less reactive, more intuitive, and more compassionate with ourselves and others.

As you explore, remember: your Higher Self is not separate from you. It is you. The more you listen, the more you’ll recognize its voice.

Step-By-Step Higher Self Meditation

This meditation is how I do it in my own practice. It is designed to help you meet, connect with, and trust your Higher Self. The more you practice, the stronger your connection will grow. Don’t rush. Go slowly. Breathe. Be willing to listen deeply.

1: Prepare Your Sacred Space

Before anything else, create an environment that feels calm, safe, and free from distractions.  Comfort is essential. Find a chair or cushion where your body feels fully supported.

Turn off all electronics, especially your phone. Dim the lights. Light a candle or incense if you feel called. Set the mood with soft, ambient music or silence, or whatever feels supportive. You can also use crystals like amethyst or selenite during meditation for energetic support.

2: Set A Sacred Intention

State your purpose clearly. You might say aloud or silently: “I open myself to receive guidance, love, and wisdom from my Higher Self.” This declaration invites your soul’s presence and sets the energetic tone for the journey ahead.

3: Ground Your Energy

Focus your eyes on a spot on the ceiling. Take three long, slow, deep belly breaths. Feel your body begin to settle. Then gently close your eyes. Visualize roots extending from your feet deep into the Earth. With every breath, feel yourself becoming more anchored, calm, and present.

4: Center Through The Breath

Now, bring your attention fully to your breath. Let each inhale and exhale be slow and natural. If thoughts arise, simply observe them and let them drift by like clouds in the sky. Don’t follow the train of thought, just notice and return to your breath.

5: Deep Body Relaxation

Mentally scan your body from head to toe. With each breath, invite release and relaxation: Soften your forehead and jaw. Relax your neck, shoulders, and arms. Let your chest, belly, and hips unwind. Soften your legs, knees, and feet. Allow your internal organs to rest and be at peace. With each exhale, say to yourself: “I release all tension. I am safe. I am open.”

6: Countdown Into Soul Connection

In your mind, begin a gentle countdown from ten to one. With each descending number, feel yourself drifting deeper into inner stillness, closer to your soul’s core. When you reach one, trust that you are now fully connected to your Higher Self.

7: Open the Channel

Take another three long, slow breaths. With each inhale, imagine breathing in golden-white light…the light of your soul. Now, in your heart or mind, ask: “Higher Self, what would you like me to know right now?” Or: “What guidance would serve my highest good today?” Let the question arise naturally. You may receive messages as thoughts, images, emotions, body sensations, or simply a sense of knowing. Trust your experience.

8: Listen with Patience & Presence

Sit in stillness for 15 to 20 minutes, simply allowing whatever arises to come through. Release any pressure to “get it right.” Your Higher Self always speaks. Sometimes in whispers, sometimes in symbols, sometimes in silence. If your mind wanders, return to your breath. If you feel blocked, gently repeat your question or simply say: “I am open. I am listening.”

9: Ask For Clarity & Support

If you have a specific question or area of life you want guidance on, now is the time to ask. Pay attention to how your body responds. A warm, expansive feeling often signals yes. A tight or uneasy feeling may mean no, not yet, or reconsider. Sometimes, the answer will come later through dreams, synchronicities, or sudden insight.

10: Return To Waking Awareness

When you feel complete, thank your Higher Self for its wisdom and presence. Then slowly count from one to five, telling yourself with each number that you’re becoming more alert, clear, and grounded. At the count of five, gently open your eyes. Stretch if you need to. Drink some water. Journal any impressions or messages you received.

Keep a journal to track messages, symbols, and patterns over time. Practice regularly. Even 10 minutes a day builds a stronger connection. Treat your Higher Self like a life-long best friend. Build the relationship with reverence and honesty.

Your Higher Self is always available, always wise, and always loving. It speaks through your intuition, your emotions, your dreams, and even your body. The more you listen, the clearer the voice becomes. The more you trust it, the more your life begins to align with your soul’s truest calling.