Book Review: The Untethered Soul

“There is nothing more important to true growth than realizing that you are not the voice of the mind - you are the one who hears it.”  -Michael Singer

In his insightful book, The Untethered Soul, Michael Singer brings to our attention the voice inside our head. He encourages the reader to listen closely to the relentless chatter of the mind. When we are conscious of this mental voice, we realize - it never stops talking, it argues both sides of every conversation and it aims to control our experiences.

In the first part of his book, he tells the reader to take a step back and watch. He urges us to look at our thoughts, emotions and experiences objectively. Singer points out that we are the conscious receiver of everything that passes through us - "You are behind everything, just watching. That is your true home. Take everything else away and you're still there, aware that everything is gone. But take the center of awareness away, and there is nothing. That center is the seat of Self. From that seat, you are aware that there are thoughts, emotions, and a world coming in through your senses."

What I love most about this book is the emphasis on observing our thoughts and emotions to experience spiritual freedom. The more we listen to the voice inside our head, we see that our mind is constantly figuring out what we need to do. Singer encourages us not to give in to the mind's struggle. Instead, allow these feelings to pass through. By observing the habitual thought patterns our mind has built, we are ready for spiritual growth.