Self-conscious consciousness

When the perceiver is aware that he is perceiving as well as being simultaneously aware of the object perceived, it is potentially a different state from perception without self-awareness since, by consciously willing attentiveness, perception comes be focused and sharpened. An example of this is music playing in the background which is only subliminally heard, compared to the intent listening of a serious music lover. Self-conscious observation of an apperceptive nature can only be maintained with difficulty. Days, weeks and longer periods can go by in some people's lives without an experience of apperception. When it does occur it may last only for seconds. Contemplatives and yogis may train themselves for extended apperception, and some professions, such as acting and other performing arts, may require intermittent apperceptive states. Religious exercises and artistic expression are qualitatively raised by the self perceiving the self, so it is considered possible that more frequent recourse to this state by people generally would improve interpersonal relations and public life.