The song of the 18 ities was written by Swami Sivananda (1887-1963), a doctor and a yogi. I recently became familiar with the concept while reading a new favorite magazine about mindful living called Happinez (click the link and check it out!) The song consists of 18 virtues of concentration, solicitude and courage for the development of a spiritual, divine life. The idea is that you start with the first word and focus on becoming consciously aware and mindful of its meaning. Meditate on each virtue, on its benefits and methods of cultivating them into your daily life. Focus on one word at a time for a day, a week or however long you desire, following them chronologically. I'll start with the first word, serenity, and continue down the list in future blogs. (click on 2-4 to see the blogs on those topics!)
Serenity
Simplicity
Veracity
Equanimity
Fixity
Non-irritability
Adaptability
Humility
Tenacity
Integrity
Nobility
Magnanimity
Charity
Generosity
Purity
1. Serenity
“Tranquillity, acceptance, a feeling of peace. A moment of serenity is where it all begins. In this state of serenity, our mind is motionless and nothing disturbs our thougts. Serenity is like a forest pool on a calm day. The pool’s surface is as smooth as glass. If we come closer, we can see right down to the bottom of the pool”
I really like the description of each word from Happinez magazine, so I'll share them at the beginning of my reflections. When personally reflecting on and cultivating the first ity, I first focus on acknowledging and savoring moments of serenity in my daily life. I find serenity in the moments when I first wake up, warm and safe in my my soft bed. I find serenity in the silent apartment that I live alone in. I find serenity in my daily routine, in the satisfaction of my tasks and activities. I find serenity at the gym, when I'm sweating and focused on my fitness. I find serenity as I walk by the foundation in my building, so I stop to enjoy the sound of the trickling water. I find serenity in the solace of personal relationships. I find serenity in making music, hearing my voice harmonize with the keyboard. I find serenity in the final moments before I fall asleep at night.
It has been said that serenity arises when we let go of our mental and emotional reactions. When we are serene, we are at peace with ourselves. So the question is, why do we become disturbed? Why can’t we maintain peace within ourselves all the time? After finding and enjoying my moments of serenity, this is the question that lies at the end of this ity. An important question I continue to reflect on and harness, to hopefully slowly diminish my harmful mental and emotions reactions.
Until next time, FJ