Practicing mindfulness in difficult times can help us to cope more skillfully and be resilient during times of future stress. Some of the habitual patterns of the mind during difficult times include denial, anger or wanting things to be other than they are.
Mindfulness practice teaches us that skillfully turning toward what is arising in this moment and acknowledging things as they are opens the door to peace.
Mindful Resilience in Difficult Times
Mindfulness practice teaches us that skillfully turning toward what is arising in this moment and acknowledging things as they are opens the door to peace. Cultivating equanimity, a profound sense of calm in the midst of the storm, may be one of the most skillful things that we can do to increase resilience during difficult times.
The current political challenges and social tensions in the U.S. may tempt us to turn toward the near enemies of equanimity, which include withdrawal, denial, complacency, cynicism, rationalization or anger. Cultivating loving-kindness, compassion and sympathetic joy offers a foundation upon which we can cultivate equanimity and resilience.
Equanimity allows us to stay open to seeing clearly how things are. As you practice cultivating these qualities in your personal practice, you may consider practicing engaged mindfulness by taking your practice into the world and engaging with organizations and groups that embody values that are consistent with your mindfulness practice.
Consider becoming a visible ally to members of marginalized groups of people who are being targeted by threats or hate crimes or who feel fearful because they are members of marginalized groups that are being targeted. Or join organizations that support and encourage compassion, equality and social and environmental justice. If you’re not sure where or how to connect, drop me an email, and I’m happy to offer some suggestions based on your interests.
When things are going well, don’t relax, and when they’re not, don’t panic. –Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche.
Contact Jen to schedule a 15-minute mindfulness coaching consultation.