We have forgotten the Self and imagine that the body or the mind is the Self. It is that wrong identity that gives rise to misery

Devotee:  There is more pleasure in dhyana than in sensual enjoyments. Yet the mind runs after the latter and does not seek the former. Why is it so?

Ramana Maharishi:  Pleasure or pain are aspects of the mind only. Our essential nature is happiness. But we have forgotten the Self and imagine that the body or the mind is the Self. It is that  wrong identity that gives rise to misery What is to be done? This vasana is very ancient and has continued for innumerable past births. Hence it has grown strong. That must go before the essential nature, viz., happiness, asserts itself.