Prior musings have outlined a method of optimizing physical, mental and spiritual health by focusing on self-care and embracing the mindful attitudes of non-judgmental acceptance, patience, curiosity, trust, non-striving, letting go and kindness. This musing will explore the benefits of mindful equanimity.
Equanimity is an attitude of calm presence in the midst of chaos or difficulty. Strong emotions are normal during a challenging situation. Fear, anger, confusion or sadness may hijack our calm, reasonable self, but operating from such a state often results in poor communication and decision making. This usually worsens the situation. You may inadvertently multiply your problems as a result of unskillful reactivity.
During a crisis, well-honed mindfulness skills are essential to shift from an emotional, reactive state to a calm, problem solving mode. This state of equanimity gives us poise and balance in difficult times.
If the challenges are long term it is important to strengthen our self-care and release any accumulated tensions in healthy ways. Healthy coping skills may include: increased mindful meditation, journaling, venting to a friend or counsellor, exercising and other forms of self-care and self-kindness. Safe venting and self-care restores equanimity.
When you are experiencing a stressful event involving a group of people (family or work crises, for example), if some participants are upset and reactive they may misinterpret your calm equanimity as indifference. We need to be somewhat immune to such negative judgments, knowing that we are doing what works best for us in a difficult situation. If you feel the need to clarify, you might explain that your calm equanimity is not indifference but reflects a desire to fully manage the situation with as much care and skill as possible.
Mood states are mutually influenced through our automatic “mirror neuron” systems deep in our brains. Our equanimity during a crisis might promote a degree of calmness in others. Above all, we need to be empathetic, kind and accepting of ourselves and others, especially during crises.
The ability to pause, then respond with equanimity during difficult situations is one of the main benefits of mindful practice.
Mindful Home Practice:
In the midst of a crisis be sure to practice mindful self-care and be as calm as possible. Getting upset to some degree is normal, but note how these practices help you quickly return to a state of equanimity.