Why Equanimity?

Equanimity comes from the Latin aequanimitas which translates as 'equal' (aequus) 'mind' (animus).

Perhaps we could say 'calm', 'composed' mind. but let's stay with the direct translation, EQUAL MIND because this directs us to two fundamental requirements in the practice of mindfulness, which are BALANCE and HONESTY.

Obstacles to our contentment are CRAVING ( I want this, I must have it, I can't do without it, I need more!) and AVERSION ( I can't stand this , I can't cope, I must get rid of it! ).

To achieve balance requires an HONEST ACCEPTANCE of 'what is here' and of the realities of life.

This is essential in mindfulness practice and it is expressed and demonstrated by Ron Leifer in his reflective book 'Engagements with the World'. This is what he writes about sadness:

'Sadness can also be a normal, even a positive emotion. A balanced feeling of sadness is a response to the suffering, which is an inherent and inescapable aspect of this life. It is a heartfelt acceptance of the tragic realities of life. The person whose search for happiness is tinged with sadness may have a more realistic view of life than compulsively happy people or depressed people. The most heartfelt music is played in a minor key. Excessive sadness is a refusal to accept the realities of life. It is the futile wish that life were different. It is hopeless hope. An insufficient sadness, the compulsive cheerfulness of the naive optimist, indicates an insensitivity to the realities of life.'

Here is the balance. We don't crave sadness, indulge in it; nor are we averse to it, running away or in denial of it.