Attachments and Illusion

Illusion, or maya, is deeply entwined with the ego and our worldly attachments. It depicts the misleading nature of the material world, which causes us to see things not as they truly are, but as shaped by desire and perception. Maya casts a veil of ignorance over awareness, misrepresenting reality and seizing us in a cycle of clinging and suffering.

We are heavily shaped by our external environment—our relationships, possessions, beliefs, expectations, and the outcomes we chase. Often, we're conditioned to believe that happiness lies in these external “things,” rather than discovering a more genuine, lasting joy that arises from within. 

We also become deeply attached to impressing others, following norms, fulfilling expectations, following the herd mentality, which takes away from our own authentic perspectives and conscious thoughts. 

From a very young age, we become entangled in various systems—familial, governmental, religious, educational—all of which exert a powerful influence over us. Ideas are often imposed upon us during childhood, gradually shaping who we believe ourselves to be. The forceful imprint of others’ beliefs, opinions, and worldviews can leave a lasting mark, especially on children and young adults, further reinforcing the illusion of identity and reality that isn’t truly our own.

These attachments hinder spiritual growth in attaining unity with the soul and your true essence in who you are meant to be, furthermore keeping us at a distance with true blissful happiness. 

Not all attachments have a negative connotation, however, attachments connected to ego are inherently negative. The material world can be very addictive and this attachment will continue to create a large gap between the ‘self’ and the soul keeping you in the illusory state. Detach from desires and attachments and you will begin the journey towards self-realization and enlightenment.

The Bhagavad Gita teaches about illusion and the material world being temporary and constantly changing. It speaks about breaking free from illusion, which brings bliss and joy from your inner world.

The Bhagavad Gita offers profound insights into the nature of attachment and illusion. It reminds us that lasting happiness and true freedom arise not from clinging to the fleeting and impermanent aspects of life, but from aligning with our eternal, unchanging essence. Through detachment and inner awareness, we begin to see beyond illusion and connect with the deeper truth of who we are.

Attachment can significantly shape our experiences and emotional well-being. When we become deeply connected to people, possessions, or outcomes, our inner state begins to mirror the ups and downs of the external world. Joy may arise when desires are met, but just as quickly, disappointment, sorrow, or frustration can follow when life doesn't unfold as expected. In this way, attachment anchors us to constant change, often leading to emotional turbulence and an insatiable yearning for more.

There is a story I came across where swami Rama approaches his guru to better understand Maya, which is explained in a blog called Life and Beyond: it is easy for our minds to believe what is non-existent.

By grounding ourselves in the present moment and acknowledging the impermanent nature of material possessions and relationships, we begin to loosen the grip of attachment. In this awareness, a quiet freedom emerges—one that allows us to experience life more fully, without clinging or resistance. It is in this space that true inner peace can be found.