Equanimity or Upekkha is a highly valued quality in Buddhist teachings. It is one of the Four Divine Abodes (along with loving-kindness, compassion and joy), one of the Seven Factors of Enlightenment, one of the Ten Paramitas. When highly developed it is the precursor to the experience of awakening. But what is equanimity? How can we cultivate it in our meditation practice? Even more, how can we access it in our daily life, especially in times like these with so much uncertainty, fear and sadness over the suffering in the world?

Our theme for this daylong, which will include silent periods of sitting and walking, will be on developing equanimity in our formal practice. In addition, we will explore various aspects of equanimity that can be pragmatically applied to our life off the cushion. 

This online retreat is suitable for new and experienced practitioners.

This event is freely offered. There will be an opportunity to contribute dana (offer donations) to James Baraz at the end of the retreat.

About James Baraz 

James Baraz has been teaching meditation since 1978. He is a founding teacher of Spirit Rock Meditation Center where, in addition to leading retreats, he coordinates the Community Dharma Leader program, and is the teacher-advisor to the Spirit Rock Family and Teen program and the Kalyana Mitta (Spiritual Friends) Network. He is the co-author of Awakening Joy.and Awakening Joy for Kids and has led the popular online Awakening Joy course since 2003.

In addition, he is a guiding teacher for One Earth Sangha, a Buddhist Platform for a Dharma response to Climate Change. James leads an ongoing meditation class in Berkeley, California where he also lives with his wife, Jane.