Transmutation

The idea presented by Michael A. Singer that the mind and heart are not enemies but are “trying to push impurities out” deeply resonates with me, especially as a first-year naturopathy student. In naturopathy, we learn that the body expresses symptoms like fever or boils as part of its natural healing process. Similarly, Singer explains that the mind and heart function in the same way — releasing stored emotional impressions. This perspective has helped me shift from seeing emotions as problems to understanding them as healing processes. He says, “The energy is expressing itself because you stored it in there,” which made me realize that many of my emotional reactions are not just about the present moment but are linked to past experiences. Earlier, I used to believe that emotions like fear, embarrassment, or sadness were weaknesses that needed to be controlled or avoided. But now I understand that they are simply energies trying to come up and release themselves. As a hosteller, I often experience homesickness and emotional discomfort. There was a time when I felt very low and missed home intensely. My first reaction was to resist it — I distracted myself with my phone and tried not to think about it. However, the feeling did not disappear; instead, it stayed within me and made me more restless and irritable. This showed me that resistance does not remove the emotion, it only suppresses it. Later, I tried a different approach. I remembered Singer’s idea: “If you can learn to not get pulled down into these energies, but to allow them to be… the natural process of transmutation is going to take place.” So, when I again felt homesick, I chose to sit quietly and allow the feeling without distraction. At first, the emotion became stronger and uncomfortable, just as he describes: “Now I feel the most embarrassment I ever felt… Relax.” I simply observed it and did not try to push it away. Gradually, the intensity reduced, and I started feeling lighter and calmer. This experience made me understand what he means when he says that the energy “becomes love” and that behind these emotions is a higher energy. I realized that when I stop resisting, the same energy that appeared as discomfort can transform into peace and acceptance. To help myself relax and “keep my hands off” during such moments, I practice simple techniques like deep breathing, reminding myself that “this is from the past and will pass,” and observing the emotion without reacting. Most importantly, I try to trust the natural healing process — just like the body heals itself, the mind and heart also know how to release and balance. Through this understanding, I am learning that emotions are not obstacles but opportunities for inner cleansing and growth. By allowing them instead of resisting, I am gradually developing more emotional strength, awareness, and inner peace.