Ep #172: False Identity vs. True Self with Michael Henri

Have you ever heard a voice inside you whisper, “You’re not good enough”?

This episode is a gentle and powerful reminder that your inner critic is not who you really are. It explores how that harsh inner voice—the one that tells you you’re not ready, smart enough, or worthy—can sound convincing, but it isn’t the truth of your being. That voice comes from fear and old patterns, not from your deepest self.

Using both yoga philosophy and neuroscience, the episode explains the idea of Asmita (false identity), which is when we mistake our thoughts, labels, or past mistakes for who we are. But underneath the noise is your true self—calm, compassionate, and clear. The path forward isn’t to silence the critic completely, but to stop letting it run your life.

With reflection prompts, breath practices, and mantras, you’ll learn how to shift your focus from fear to inner wisdom. This episode is an invitation to come home to yourself—one small breath at a time.

Episode Chapters:

00:00:00 Introduction

00:02:06 The Inner Critic Speaks

00:04:54 The Idea of Asmita

00:05:47 Fear and the Brain

00:07:00 You Are Not Your Thoughts

00:10:55 False Identity vs. Inner Wisdom

00:13:18 New Neural Pathways

00:16:04 Breath + Mantra Practice

00:18:48 Reflective Journaling Prompts

00:22:51 Key Takeaways

00:25:34 Closing Mantras

00:27:50 Final Reflections

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Concepts from Yogic Philosophy:

• Asmita (false identity)

• Purusha (pure consciousness)

• Atman (soul)
  

Referenced Book or Movie:

• Inside Out (Pixar film about emotions)
  

Reflective Prompts Shared in the Episode:

• “What roles or thoughts am I mistaking for my true self?”

• “Where has my inner wisdom already guided me?”

• “When does my inner critic speak the loudest?”

• “What evidence do I have that I am growing—even with fear present?”

• “If I trusted my true self 5% more, what small choice might I make?”
  

• Michael Henri’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/ 

• Going Pro Yoga’s Instagram: https://www.instagram/com/goingproyoga/

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Tags: inner critic, self-worth, yoga philosophy, asmita, self-doubt, identity, imposter syndrome, true self, self-compassion, self-awareness, personal growth, inner wisdom, breathwork, mindset, confidence

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