Equanimity: A peaceful approach to life’s challenges

The Cambridge dictionary defines equanimity as “a calm mental state, especially after a shock or disappointment or in a difficult situation”. Maintaining a state of equanimity is the difference between reacting and regretting later or pausing before responding in a challenging situation.

It speaks to the wisdom of knowing that no human being is exempt from challenges and conflicts. There are always going to be things we have no control over but also, nothing remains the same all the time. What appears to be bad fortune at first may turn out to be a blessing in disguise.

The Zen Story of the farmer who lost his horse only to gain another ten wild horses brought along by his horse who found his way home and later, his son escaped being conscripted into war because he broke his leg riding one of the wild horses, illustrates this paradox of life beautifully.

Equanimity can be cultivated through the practice of mindfulness and radical acceptance of the situation we find ourselves in. Mindfulness allows us to pause and not be taken over by strong emotions. It allows us to tap into our “higher self” and ask ourselves what is important in that moment: What is my highest intention – peace or being right? kindness or blame? generosity or winning?

So, next time you find yourself in a challenging situation, take a pause, reground yourself with some deep breaths and then ask yourself what is most important in that situation. With the right response, you may find that the situation may be a blessing in disguise after all.