Equanimity is a state of non-attachment, where one observes experiences without getting carried away by them. In Shaiva Tantra equanimity is also a pathway to deeper spiritual realization. Equanimity is cultivated through practices like self-reflection and cultivating awareness of one’s thoughts and emotions.

Vijnana Bhairava gives two Dharanas.

Dharana 100

Since the conviction that everything is full of Brahman (who is also the essential Self of all), the aspirant has the same attitude towards friend and foe, remains the same in honour and dishonor. Thus because of the conviction of the Brahman everywhere he is perpetually happy.

Dharana101

The aspirant should neither maintain the attitude of aversion nor of attachment towards anyone. Since he is freed of both aversion and attachment, there develops Brahma bhava or the nature of the Divine Consciousness (which is also the nature of the essential self) in his heart.

Both Dharanas tell one how to live spiritually in the world. Dharana 100 explains that by focusing the awareness on the undifferentiated consciousness, which is all pervading leads to liberation. Undifferentiated consciousness represents a state of absolute unity where there is no separation between observer and observed, self and other. It is a key aspect of spiritual awakening and truth. Dharana 101 describes the avoidance of aversion and attachment and it is used as a Yogic method. If one learns not to be attached, and not to hate, one eventually grows in divine awareness.

Extracted from ‘The Yoga of Kashmir Shaivism’ and Sri Vijnana Bhairav Tantra.

Aim Hrim Klim