Why does detaching from ego and the 'self' become easier through 'perspective shifting' exercises?
Detaching from ego and the 'self' becomes easier through 'perspective shifting' exercises, such as the 'view from above,' because these exercises create cognitive distance between the individual and their immediate concerns, diminishing the perceived importance of personal anxieties and ego-driven desires. The ego thrives on self-importance and identification with fleeting external circumstances. Perspective shifting counteracts this by encouraging individuals to view themselves and their problems from a broader, more objective standpoint, such as from the perspective of the universe, history, or another person. This process reveals the relative insignificance of individual concerns within the vastness of time and space, reducing the power of the ego to dominate one's thoughts and emotions. By recognizing that one's existence is a small part of a larger whole, the attachment to ego-driven desires and anxieties weakens, fostering a sense of humility and acceptance. For instance, contemplating the vastness of the cosmos can make personal setbacks seem less overwhelming, reducing the ego's tendency to catastrophize and cling to self-importance.