Many people who are interested in spiritual growth and personal development find themselves attracted to mindfulness meditation, yoga, tai chi, qi gong, or other forms of contemplative practices that have their roots in Asian traditions. These practices can be found in monasteries, meditation centers, and even mainstream churches today. But how do they benefit those who seek them out when surrounded by political and religious conflict?
Contemplative practices have been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. This is due to the fact that these practices focus on present moment awareness, which allows practitioners to experience life without judgment and reactivity.
When one engages in such practices within a hostile environment, it can feel isolating and discouraging. It's important to remember that these practices are not meant as escapes from life's difficulties but rather tools for navigating them more skillfully.
One way that contemplative practices nurture resilience amidst political and ecclesial hostility is through developing equanimity. Equanimity refers to an attitude of balance and composure despite difficult circumstances. Practices like mindfulness meditation train practitioners to observe their thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations with non-judgmental awareness. By cultivating this quality, we learn not to identify with our experiences and therefore become less reactive when faced with external challenges. We begin to see ourselves as observers of our own lives instead of being completely controlled by them.
Another way that contemplative practices help us deal with hostility is by building up our capacity for compassion. Compassion is an empathetic concern for others' wellbeing. When we practice loving kindness meditations or other forms of selfless giving, we open up our hearts to the suffering of others and develop a desire to alleviate it. We may find ourselves feeling inspired to actively seek out ways to make a difference in the world around us, even if it means standing against those who disagree with us politically or religiously.
Contemplative practices can also foster a sense of connectedness. Whether we practice alone or together with others, these practices remind us that we are part of something greater than ourselves. They help us recognize our interdependence with all beings and cultivate gratitude for the many blessings in our lives. This can give us strength during times of conflict when it seems like everything is falling apart.
While political and ecclesial hostility can make life more challenging, engaging in contemplative practices can provide us with tools to navigate these difficulties with equanimity, compassion, and connection. While not everyone will want to follow a traditional spiritual path, anyone interested in personal growth should consider incorporating mindfulness meditation into their daily routines. It's one way to build resilience amidst difficult circumstances so that we can continue to live a meaningful life despite adversity.
How does contemplative practice nurture resilience amid political and ecclesial hostility?
Contemplative practices such as mindfulness meditation can be a helpful way for individuals to cultivate resilience in situations of social and institutional conflict by enhancing their capacity to regulate emotions and stress responses, increase self-awareness and empathy, and foster feelings of connection and belonging.