Equanimity. Impermanence.
With so much uncertainty and loss resulting from the global COVID-19 pandemic, my first thought is that people should just CALM DOWN. But in what emergency situation has saying that ever really helped?? So I take a few breaths and instead of focusing on the problem, try to focus on a possible solution. It’s taken me quite some work to get to this place of equanimity, but I’m glad that I’m here.
I actually heard this word — equanimity — for the first time during a 10-day Vipassana meditation course (November 2016). It’s about remaining composed and balanced when surfing the ups and downs in life, refraining from becoming attached to the good or the bad. And this is all based on the concept of anicca, or the impermanence of any and all situations in life; that everything is passing and changing constantly, like the setting of the sun, or the flowing of water.
During challenging times like these, finding equanimity is so valuable for our peace of mind and is what allows us to continue to love and be there for others.
In the video included here, Goenka-ji tells a story about 2 brothers and how the law of anicca can change everything.
Before Vipassana, I don’t think I truly understood what it meant to simply observe and be present. Just like any technique, however, Vipassana isn’t for everyone. While it was life-changing for me, you may find other techniques serve you better.
In my current practice, I actually no longer use Vipassana. What it’s done for me though, is that I can now approach other meditation and mindfulness techniques with confidence. Most recently, I’ve just completed the 21-day Abundance Challenge from the Chopra Centre that uses mantras in the short meditation exercises — I’ve always resisted participating in challenges like these but figured I had nothing to lose. I’d also never worked with mantras before.
So what possible solutions am I proposing during this time of quarantine and self-isolation if you don’t already have a spiritual practice? Take a deep breath and get curious about meditation — start small and find what works for you.
If you’re a more seasoned meditator and already use a particular technique that you find helpful in navigating the ups and downs, please share in the comments below!!
*For more information about the Vipassana practice, or to check out the centres where you can register for a free 10-day course once this is all over, visit http://www.dhamma.org
