Memory loss is one of the most difficult challenges faced during the spiritual awakening journey. If you’re currently going through a spiritual awakening, you might have noticed that most of your old memories—along with the mental pathways and ego-based patterns you’ve developed—begin to dissolve. This isn’t just a feeling of forgetting; it’s a deep erasure of identity. You may find yourself unable to recall simple details, perform basic tasks, or even function in the ways you once did.
It can feel as though you are losing your mind. In fact, the symptoms may even resemble conditions such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. But this is not a disease—this is transformation. And yet, there seems to be no one to help you. No conventional solution appears to heal the brain and nervous system from this state. That’s why I want to share a powerful technique today—one that will help you regenerate your neural pathways and restore functionality, especially if you’ve reached states of deep enlightenment or samadhi.
Those who have spent years in samadhi or awakened states often find it difficult to reintegrate into worldly life. They no longer function like a typical human being. Society, friends, and even family may see them as mentally unwell or simply abandon them altogether. If you’re in this situation, know this: you are not alone. You are not broken. And most importantly, you can heal.
You have the power to rebuild your brain and begin anew. The key lies in something I call the instinctive life. This is the life that activates your primal intelligence, the original wiring of your brain. Today, I will share one technique from the instinctive life that you can begin practicing immediately—and witness results as you do.
Let me begin by telling you a basic truth: your primitive brain is always functional. It never shuts down as long as you are alive. The only problem is that in modern life, we rarely engage it. We don’t stimulate it with the kinds of activities it evolved to perform.
One such activity is the use of the mortar and pestle—a traditional, stone-made tool that was once used in every home to grind and pound herbs and spices. You’ve probably seen it in old documentaries or period films. It’s a simple tool, but engaging with it creates magic in the brain.
When you hold the pestle and begin to grind, your grip changes. Your muscles engage. Your senses awaken. And as you pound and rotate the pestle, your brain releases dopamine. This is a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, reward, and movement. The act itself tells the brain, “I am alive. I am capable. I am productive.” It creates a sense of purpose and achievement.
There are many dimensions of healing involved in this one simple act.
I have guided many students—those who experienced memory loss or cognitive dysfunction during their spiritual awakening—through this exact practice. The results have been remarkable. So, let me guide you through it now.
Today, I will make a traditional Indian mint chutney. This is not just a dish—it is medicine for the mind and body.
We begin with fresh mint leaves and coriander leaves. These herbs are easily available and extremely beneficial for digestion and detoxification. I add ginger, which grounds the energy and strengthens immunity. Then comes garlic, known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. For taste and stimulation of the senses, we include green chilies. These also help awaken dormant taste buds and increase salivation, which signals healthy brain response.
Next, I use rock salt—excellent for digestion—and a pinch of asafoetida powder, also known as hing, which supports gut health.
Now, I take a handful of mint leaves, a few coriander leaves, a small piece of ginger, one garlic clove, one chili, a pinch of salt, and some asafoetida powder—and begin grinding them in the mortar and pestle.
As I begin to pound and grind, I adjust my posture. I use my entire upper body. My shoulders, elbows, wrists, and fingers all participate in the motion. This activates deep neuromuscular pathways. My brain is challenged—and rewarded—by this forceful, rhythmic movement. The smell of the herbs begins to rise, awakening my sense of smell and further engaging the brain.
You can add a little water if needed and continue the grinding process until it becomes a fine paste. Notice how every muscle in your hand is now active. This process stimulates both the motor and sensory cortex, strengthens coordination, and revives your connection with the body. Your brain is returning to its instinctive, fully functional state.
And then comes the final reward: the tasting. As I taste the chutney, my mouth fills with saliva. That, too, is a sign of healing. It means your taste buds are alive. Your brain is registering satisfaction, safety, and sensory pleasure. It feels present.
This one activity—a simple, primal act—tells your brain: you are healthy, you are capable, you are alive.
You don’t have to make chutney every day. You can grind anything. The point is not what you prepare—it is how you prepare it. Bring your body, senses, and presence into the action. Let the instinctive part of your brain take over.
This is a path back to balance. A path back to wholeness.
In upcoming discourses, I’ll share more techniques from the instinctive life—practices that awaken the sleeping parts of you and help you integrate your spiritual journey into daily life.
Until then, try this. Embrace the simplicity. Heal your brain, one instinct at a time.
You can even scoop the chutney with your hand, enjoy its texture, and feel your body come alive again.
Have a great day!
