Self-Narratives and Consciousness:

Our sense of self is intricately woven into the narratives we construct about our lives. These narratives shape our identity, memories, and understanding of the world. Philosophy of psychology, consciousness studies, literature, and material culture converge to shed light on self-representations. These representations extend beyond the confines of body and mind, encompassing both our physical existence and the intangible aspects of self. The subjective nature of consciousness lies in the process of epistemologizing experience – understanding our own conscious awareness and its interplay with the external world. 

While neuroscience often seeks to reduce the self to brain processes, it’s essential to recognize that consciousness transcends mere neural mappings. The self exists beyond the physical, inviting us to explore its multifaceted dimensions ¹.Neuroscience, Storytelling, and Psychology:Neuroscience research reveals that our inner experience profoundly impacts our emotions and well-being. Becoming aware of our inner landscape allows us to navigate life’s challenges.

Storytelling plays a pivotal role in this journey. Narratives help us reclaim control over our experiences, fostering resilience and transformation. The #MeWe methodology, which combines neuroscience, storytelling, and psychology, empowers refugee youth by connecting shared experiences, reshaping narratives, and catalyzing positive change ².

Preserving Our Sense of Self:A study published in 2021 highlights how specific brain regions knit together memories of our present and future selves. Damage to these areas can impair our sense of identity. Our brain weaves a rich tapestry of selfhood, integrating past, present, and anticipated experiences. This intricate dance of neural connections preserves our sense of self³.Literature, Psychology, and the Brain: Scholars from literary theory, psychology, and neuroscience converge to explore the construction of stories. These narratives are rooted not only in cultural context but also in our embodied existence.

Stories shape our consciousness, allowing us to navigate the labyrinth of self-awareness and weave meaning into our lives ⁴.In this dance between conscious narratives and neural symphonies, we discover the profound impact of our inner selves on the canvas of existence.