Ashtavakra Gita 2.21 - Self-Realization and the Nature of Consciousness

As long as one is wakeful, sensory perceptions will be there. But the truth and relevance of these will have changed drastically. This is the difference. Self-realization is not supposed to interfere adversely with one’s life, wakefulness and activity. It only provides the vital knowledge of Truth and frees the mind and intelligence from undue botheration and agitation.

See, even in huge crowd of people, says Janaka, I feel aloneness, wilderness, as the fictitious nature of all objectude is alive and active in me. All perceptions are dual. As one understands that duality is groundless, of what strength and effect can duality be?

The eyes see, the mind imprints, but the higher understanding of their fallacy is more deeply at work. It balances the others. And there abides a very beautiful harmony.

The higher realization co-exists with the lower sensory handiwork. Previously the sensory perception alone was. Now the higher realization also is active. This keeps the key of life and interactions.

As a result, Janaka asks, how can he have any interest in anything at all? His own Self is everything and all for him.
He feels and affirms: ‘I am full, absolutely so. And hence harmonious with everything that comes and goes. What a wonderful state of release, poise and abundance, seldom experienced by the worldly and sensory people!’