Then I Am Myself the World

Consciousness is the experience of being aware—and within that lies the vast spectrum of what it means to be human.

1. Consciousness is the Experience of Being

Koch defines consciousness simply as the experience of being aware. It isn't just the ability to think or reason; it's the totality of how we perceive and feel our existence. This includes the tangible, like the five senses, as well as the intangible, such as emotions and imagination.

A unique aspect of consciousness is its variability depending on the individual. Some people have intense visualizations when imagining scenarios, while others struggle to picture anything at all. Similarly, emotions play a significant role in consciousness, ranging from basic feelings like anger or joy to complex states like the Portuguese "saudade," which describes longing for an irretrievable past.

Aside from these, we have meta-consciousness, or the ability to reflect on experiences, and even altered states like dreaming or meditating. Consciousness isn't static—our minds drift and shift constantly. Quiet moments of meditation or states of flow can offer fleeting escapes from the constant chatter of the "self."

Examples

• People with rich imaginations can visualize entire stories or worlds in their minds, while others experience "aphantasia," making visualization impossible.
• Emotions like anger are universal, but concepts like "saudade" highlight culturally specific emotional experiences.
• Dreaming is a natural altered state of consciousness that everyone experiences during sleep.

2. Reality is Not Universal

Koch emphasizes that reality is highly subjective. What one person sees, feels, or understands is different from another's interpretation, no matter how similar the external stimuli. A prime example of this was the viral "dress" debate, where people perceived entirely different colors from the same image.

Our brains are responsible for generating the realities we experience. This explains phenomena like face blindness (the inability to recognize faces) or the existence of "super recognizers" who never forget a face. Similarly, taste or pain thresholds vary widely, reinforcing the idea that reality is constructed in the mind.

This concept can feel isolating—each person exists within their "Perception Box," shaped by their brain's capacities and limitations. However, it also means our boxes can be expanded through learning, understanding, and experiences.

Examples

• The viral debate over whether "the dress" was blue and black or white and gold highlighted subjective visual perceptions.
• Some individuals, due to face blindness, cannot identify familiar people despite multiple interactions.
• Spicy food is perceived differently across cultures and individuals, with some finding mild peppers unbearable and others thriving on extreme heat.

3. The Placebo Effect Shows the Power of Belief

The placebo effect demonstrates that our beliefs can directly shape our reality. In medical studies, patients often report improvements in symptoms while taking sugar pills, simply because they believe the treatment will work.

This phenomenon extends beyond medicine. Our mindset can dictate how we interpret and respond to the challenges of life. For example, Victor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor, found meaning in suffering, and this mindset allowed him to endure the unimaginable conditions of concentration camps.

The placebo effect, coupled with our ability to change our perception intentionally, shows how much control we have. Through small shifts in our thinking, like adopting a positive attitude toward challenges, we can influence our mood, connections, and the overall quality of our experiences.

Examples

• In depression treatments, SSRIs only slightly outperform sugar pills in delivering results, showing how belief aids healing.
• Victor Frankl reframed his time in the concentration camps by focusing on finding meaning in suffering.
• A positive outlook amidst dreary weather, like Koch's approach to the Pacific Northwest's gloom, can transform experiences.

4. The Brain is Malleable

Our brains are not fixed in their capabilities. Thanks to neuroplasticity, we can rewire them by learning, practicing, and thinking differently. This adaptability decreases slightly with age but never disappears entirely.

Neuroplasticity allows us to break old habits and form new ones by creating new neural connections. Intentional efforts like studying a musical instrument, learning a new language, or even practicing mindfulness can significantly expand one's abilities and perception.

Although neuroplasticity involves time and effort, it holds enormous potential for growth. Tools like meditation help to create stillness in the mind, enabling people to reframe negative thought cycles and foster a sense of peace.

Examples

• People recovering from strokes often regain lost functions through rigorous therapy and neuroplasticity.
• Learning to play piano later in life strengthens new neural pathways in the prefrontal cortex.
• Meditation and mindfulness practices physically reshape the brain, increasing gray matter in areas related to focus and empathy.

5. Transformative Experiences Quiet the Self

One of the most profound aspects of human experience is the ability to transcend the chatter of the ego, or "self." Activities that place people in a flow state, like coding, painting, or climbing, are powerful because they silence that voice temporarily.

Certain transformative experiences go deeper. Religious awakenings, awe-inspiring moments in nature, and artistic revelations often leave people feeling deeply changed. At these moments, the self can dissolve, and individuals perceive a connection to something larger.

Interestingly, research demonstrates that during such moments, brain activity in the neocortex decreases. This reduction may correspond to feelings of egolessness, timelessness, and unity with the world.

Examples

• Jane Goodall described an awe-inspiring moment in nature where she felt deeply connected to life itself.
• Musicians often report losing themselves when playing music, describing it as a journey beyond self-conscious thought.
• Climbers in a flow state focus solely on the immediate task, silencing their inner dialogue.

6. Psychedelics as a Gateway to Altered States

Hallucinogens like psilocybin mushrooms, LSD, and ayahuasca have gained attention for their ability to dissolve the ego and unlock transformative states of consciousness. Koch himself experienced this through 5-MeO-DMT, which led him to a state of complete ego dissolution and lasting changes in his sense of self.

Psychedelics promote hyper-connectivity in the brain while quieting usual hierarchical processes, giving way to profound emotional and sensory effects. While these substances can be overwhelming, they often provide insights into one's fears, desires, or spirituality.

Modern research supports psychedelics' therapeutic use. They've shown promise in treating depression, PTSD, and fear of death in terminal patients, highlighting their potential for profound, positive change.

Examples

• Psychedelic-assisted therapy has helped cancer patients reduce end-of-life anxiety.
• Koch's 5-MeO-DMT trip eliminated his fear of death and brought newfound tranquility.
• Researchers are investigating MDMA's ability to heal trauma from PTSD.

7. Awe Expands Perception

Experiences of awe can change how we view ourselves. Whether standing before a majestic mountain, looking up at a star-filled sky, or reading profound poetry, awe makes the self feel small while expanding a connection to something greater.

Scientific studies find that awe increases prosocial behaviors such as empathy and generosity. It also disrupts typical thought patterns, allowing the individual to feel present and aligned with the present moment.

The mere act of seeking out awe-inspiring experiences—exploring new places or engaging with great art—can act as a kind of self-rejuvenation for the mind.

Examples

• Edgar Mitchell, an astronaut from Apollo 14, described feeling deeply connected to the entire universe while in space.
• Tourists often report transformative moments when looking at world wonders like the pyramids or Grand Canyon.
• Awe inspired by Van Gogh's Starry Night affects observers spiritually and emotionally.

8. Reality Responds to Perception

Our beliefs about ourselves can turn into self-fulfilling prophecies. Like the placebo effect, expectations shape experiences, not just in medical contexts but in all aspects of life.

Koch points out that focusing on building resiliency instead of adopting a victim narrative encourages individuals to take charge of life. Making even small changes—like framing bad weather as a challenge rather than a nuisance—can transform the way we see the world.

By reshaping how we interpret situations, we take control of our reality instead of being passive recipients of external circumstances.

Examples

• Athletes often use positive visualization techniques to improve their performance during competitions.
• Workplace success is linked to employees who actively embrace challenges rather than fearing failure.
• Even a mundane walk in dreary weather can feel uplifting if approached with curiosity and creative outlooks.

9. Practices Beyond Psychedelics Transform Us

While psychedelics are one method of altering perception, other practices like yoga, meditation, hypnosis, and breathwork create similar effects at a slower pace. These activities quiet the ego and strengthen mental resilience over time.

Each practice offers its own benefits. Meditation reduces stress and increases self-awareness, while breathwork can induce calm or help with emotional release. Yoga not only strengthens the body but also encourages mind-body unity, giving practitioners deep focus and tranquility.

Koch details how these slow but steady efforts mirror psychedelic benefits without the risks, providing pathways for lasting change.

Examples

• Meditation has been shown to lower stress hormones and increase gray matter in the brain.
• Controlled breathing techniques are a key method for combatting panic attacks.
• Daily yoga routines improve focus while fostering physical health.

Takeaways

1. Practice mindfulness or meditation daily to explore your inner world and gain better control of your Perception Box.
2. Reframe challenges by adopting positive perspectives, using minor attitude shifts to influence how you experience life.
3. Seek awe and inspiration—immerse yourself in nature, art, or new adventures to uncover connecting moments and expanded consciousness.