This word reminds us to find joy in our life as it is, and not get caught up in what we wish it to be. It asks us to remember that what we have right now is precious and transitory. To practice equanimity, we must cultivate mindfulness and be aware of when we are becoming pulled in any one direction so that we are less jerked around by transitory thoughts. Śrāddha is the inner, intuitive belief that you are walking steadily towards your life’s goals. It takes us away from our limited perception of reality and into a more universal vision. To cultivate, you must pull out the weeds (aka the most persistent, deeply ingrained ways of being and thinking) and plant the ways of being that you want to bring into your life. That’s when you can begin to sow love, kindness, joy, happiness, humility, gratitude, and peace. Then, you try to live in accordance with the answer. Easier said than done, I know, but start by addressing the lies you may tell yourself. Do your best to stop listening to what other people say or do or think of you. Stand tall and strong in your belief of how to live a good life. That’s when you’ll notice that gossip and comparison stops, and truth and honesty begin. You can find her blog at Yin New Zealand. Gabrielle is a qualified yoga teacher and has a double degree in Education and Psychology from Victoria University, Wellington.
