We all need to trust our ability to withstand our difficulties and challenges. But equally important, is finding a place within ourselves that remains open and steady so that opportunities for insight and growth are maximized.
In #BuddhistPsychology, this inner ballast is referred to as Buddha-nature. It’s considered to be the deepest layer of the mind that is highly receptive, excellent at learning, and able to navigate skillfully all the tumult we face. The challenge is finding ways to access this part of the mind so that we start to trust it can always be tapped into, even woven into our daily lives.
The first step is getting to know the more surface layers of your mind. We’ve been through a remarkably challenging time, so you might notice lots of anxiety, agitation, concern, frustration, etc. That’s okay. If you can simply observe with respect these more accessible layers, and give yourself time to settle in, slowly, you’ll begin to notice the part of your mind that is endowed with spaciousness and curiosity.
Patience will help. For most of us, it’s tempting to remain identified with the surface layers – all the feelings we know so well. But the feelings are a portal to a part of yourself that might just bring you the well-being and ease we all deserve.
Finding Your Inner Ballast
