In Hebrew, the word atzmi (written עצמי) has two separate but related meanings. In everyday speech, it means "me," "my self," "my very essence." And this is what the Atzmi system is all about—who you are, and how you can improve and develop your true, essential inner self.

Likewise, in the traditional terminology of Kabbalah and Chassidic thought, the word atzmi (derived from the Hebrew word etzem, meaning "core" or "essence") is used to refer to the ultimate Godly expression of all human traits in their purest, most intrinsic form. For example, wisdom or compassion in its "atzmi state" refers to Godly wisdom or compassion at their highest possible levels.

It is only when both types of atzmi—our human "self" and the intrinsic Divine "essence"—are in alignment that we are able to maximize our potential and actualize our real selves.