Cultivating Equanimity

Equanimity is the ability to retain peace of mind when the world around us is chaotic. Remaining balanced in today’s world can feel like an enormous task and yet it is of prime importance. Without a balanced mind, we are at the whim of our emotions and desires. We may find ourselves overreacting to small things, misreading situations and conversations, or feeling disconnected. When we make equanimity a priority, we experience greater stability in our body, mind, and spirit.

Some simple things we can do to increase feelings of equanimity.

Establish Routines

Perhaps the most important thing we can do is set aside time for ourselves each day. Contrary to popular belief, we do not need 60 – 90 minutes of daily practice to cultivate equanimity. Instead try starting with five to ten minutes first thing in the morning and in the evening. This time is perfect for a little self-reflection on the day ahead, or behind, and to set a little intention for how we would like things to go. We can keep it light and easy.

Practice Balancing

Rose demonstrating equanimity in a modified tree pose standing in a tree trunk

It might sound silly, but practicing balance poses helps to cultivate feelings of balance in the mind. Yoga postures are not isolated movements of the body. They are sacred geometry for the body, mind, and spirit. The practice of Tree pose or Stork pose puts us into a position where we need one pointed focus, or we will fall. The mind zeroes in on the nuances of remaining in a balanced position. Through this intense concentration, we begin to experience feelings of equanimity. The more often we practice, the more we will experience this balance and it becomes a desired state of mind.

Equanimity Meditation

A meditation practice when we feel unbalanced can seem daunting. The best kind of meditation is Yoga Nidra where all that is required of us is to listen, to the best of our ability. It is even better when we can practice lying down. Yoga Nidra is an exquisite practice that enables us to experience meditation with little to no effort. Try this Yoga Nidra, Exploring Equanimity with Rose.

Alternate Nostril

The ultimate breathing practice for equanimity and peace of mind. This breathing practice lowers the heart rate, the blood pressure, and centers the mind. Using this technique twice a day for ten minutes is a life changer! There is quite a bit to say about Alternate Nostril and the benefits. Find those here. Practice with me below.

About the Author

Rose Kress

Rose Kress ERYT-500, C-IAYT, YACEP, Owner/Director of the LifeForce Yoga Healing Institute, and author of Awakening Your Inner Radiance with LifeForce Yoga. She directs retreats and training programs on using LifeForce Yoga to manage your mood.

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