Vaisheshika, a school of Indian philosophy, holds an atomistic view of reality, which means that it believes that the ultimate building blocks of the universe are atoms. This philosophy also extends to the understanding of the mind and consciousness.

According to Vaisheshika, the mind and consciousness are considered to be material in nature, composed of subtle atoms known as manas. These manas atoms are responsible for the perception, cognition, and understanding of the external world. They are also believed to be the source of emotions, desires, and thoughts.

This belief in the materiality of the mind and consciousness sets Vaisheshika apart from other schools of Indian philosophy, such as Vedanta, which view the mind as non-material or spiritual in nature. Vaisheshika argues that if the mind were non-material, it would not be able to interact with the physical world and influence it in any way.

Furthermore, Vaisheshika also believes that consciousness is an emergent property of the mind. This means that consciousness arises from the combination of subtle atoms in the mind, rather than being a separate entity. This view is in contrast to dualistic philosophies, which posit that the mind and consciousness are distinct from each other.

The Vaisheshika philosophy also recognizes the role of the senses in the perception of the external world. The senses are considered to be made up of subtle atoms, and their contact with external objects leads to the formation of mental impressions or vrittis. These vrittis are then processed by the mind, leading to the experience of consciousness.

In addition to the mind and consciousness, Vaisheshika also acknowledges the existence of a higher self or soul, which is considered to be eternal and unchanging. This soul is believed to be the ultimate source of consciousness and is responsible for the individual's actions and experiences.

In conclusion, Vaisheshika's atomistic realism views the mind and consciousness as material in nature, composed of subtle atoms. This philosophy emphasizes the interconnectedness of the mind, senses, and external world in the experience of consciousness. It also recognizes the existence of a higher self or soul, which is considered to be the ultimate source of consciousness.