In his Yoga-sūtras, Patañjali describes the true nature of the self as being eternal, pure, and joyful.
It’s nice to know that we have the potential to experience ourselves that way.
The sutra also makes a clear distinction between the true self and the not self; the temporary material body that’s subject to so many problems.
The differentiation between the infinitesimal spark of individual consciousness within the body and the body itself is a fundamental principle of yoga philosophy.
Yoga wisdom tells us that we’re eternal spiritual beings riding around in mystical machines.
Which is exactly how the Bhagavad-gītā describes it:
“O Arjuna, the Supreme Lord resides within everyone’s heart and directs the wanderings of all living beings, who travel as if riding on a mystical machine that’s composed of my illusory material energy.” – Bg 18.61
It may freak you out a bit, but I can practically guarantee that if you remember that you’re walking around with a skeleton inside your body, you’ll experience a profound distinction between your consciousness and the body you are conscious of.
Hope this seasonal meditation helps you experience this for yourself!