A reflective practice of honest self-inquiry about motivations, defenses, and patterns in love, adapted from Mirabai's introspective devotion.
The examined heart is Mirabai's core practice: continuous scrutiny of one's own attachments, fears, and desires without judgment. In modern relationships, this means regularly asking: Why do I love this person? What am I avoiding? Where am I performing rather than present? This framework parallels Socratic inquiry but with bhakti's emotional honesty. Greek love types—eros, philia, storge, agape—each come with blind spots: eros can mask possession; philia can hide codependence; storge can become obligation; agape can enable self-abandonment. The examined heart asks us to distinguish genuine love from habit, fear, or conditioning. Mirabai practiced this through poetry and prayer, making internal states external. Modern couples can adopt this through intentional conversation, journaling, or therapy. Regular examination prevents relationships from becoming unconscious patterns, allowing partners to choose each other repeatedly from awareness rather than inertia.
Peri can explain this concept, give practical examples, help you decide whether it applies to your situation, or recommend a journey if appropriate.
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