Post-Pandemic Reflections

I’ve been reflecting on what it means to “emerge” from the pandemic and wanted to share some thoughts, should they resonate with you.

Stay tuned also for an announcement on in-person Trauma Informed Weekend Training, coming soon!

Before the pandemic, I considered happiness to be my equilibrium. And when things went “awry” (everyday) these inconveniences were getting in the way of maintaining my happiness. 

Now…

I understand happiness or Joy is not a neutral state, like the absence of stress.

I realize now that Joy is not only the absence, but the opposite of suffering.

Only once we experience the depths of suffering, can we fully observe the presence of its opposite. 

In fact, equilibrium feels more like contentment, even boredom or melancholy in these "unprecedented times.” (click for a sweet song)

Now, Joy -  that’s something really special. 

Have you noticed a moment of fully embodied Joy?

What does it feel like?
(i.e. warmth around the heart, quickened heart rate or breath)

As we emerge from two plus years of hibernation, forced introspection and globally disruptive phenomenon, I urge you to notice Joy when she arises. 

It is the gift (or consequence) of both the experiences we have shared communally and the journey you’ve been on alone, which I and others know nothing about. 

When you feel loss and grief as an experience in the body, you now have a heightened awareness to experience its opposite in equal measure: Joy.

As we emerge, with new appreciation of the necessity of solitude, self-prioritization, and togetherness, we have an opportunity:

Now that you have felt deeply, you are invited to feel deeply.

Invite in the Goodness as fully as you moved through the grief. 

Seek it. Cultivate it.

Believe it will be a central experience in your life. 

The Four Noble Truths of Buddhism tell us in no uncertain terms that suffering is inevitable, and through enlightened awareness, suffering is avoidable. 

If we must suffer, can we focus our eye not on equilibrium or a return to normalcy – but on the cultivation of Joy.

What brings you the kind of Joy that you can feel in your bones?  

Stay safe, and get after it. 

With Love and in community, 

Amy

Amy Osborne, M.A., E-RYT

Director / Founder

amy@inyogacollective.com