Exploring the power of self-compassion to live in freedom
In the search for inner peace, we often look at ourselves with a critical eye. However, adopting a critical attitude does not mean being cruel; we can question ourselves with compassion, without internal punishment. Zen Master Chögyam Trungpa’s teaching reminds us that all our polarities-strengths and weaknesses-are valid. It is not a matter of dividing ourselves into parts, cultivating some and suppressing others. When we learn to embrace all that we are, the inner struggle ceases and we begin to experience deep relaxation and freedom.
A Zen story illustrates this lesson beautifully. A monk, in his quest for enlightenment, was trying to clean up fallen leaves in the temple courtyard, but more leaves were constantly falling. Suddenly, he understood the futility of trying to eliminate what is part of the natural flow of life. Just as leaves fall from trees, our imperfections are part of us. Pretending to sweep them away forever only generates frustration. The key is not to eliminate, but to accept with warmth all our experiences, without rejection or attachment.
Mindfulness: Accepting Without Rejection or Clinging
Mindfulness is not simply a relaxation technique, but a way of life that invites us to be present with everything that arises. It is not about looking for “good” thoughts or eliminating “bad” ones. On the contrary, the essence of mindfulness lies in allowing all aspects of our mind to coexist without struggle. By observing what arises-an uncomfortable emotion or a pleasant idea-without judgment or interference, we discover that nothing remains forever.
As Trungpa says, when we are loyal neither to samsara nor to nirvana, we free our mind from any bondage. In daily practice, this implies abandoning the obsession with what we want to be and accepting what we already are at this moment.
Practical Exercise: Observation Without Judgment
Sit comfortably, close your eyes and connect with your breath. Inhale slowly and deeply. Exhale gently. Observe what arises-thoughts, emotions, physical sensations-without rejecting them or holding on to them. Allow them to be present and breathe with each of them.
This simple exercise reflects one of the most profound teachings of mindfulness: to accept whatever arises in the inner experience without trying to modify it. Life flows, and so can we if we stop resisting.
Finding Serenity in Full Acceptance
When we stop fighting against our nature, we discover that the path to freedom does not lie in reaching an ideal, but in living with openness and authenticity. Serenity is not found in the absence of difficult thoughts or emotions, but in the ability to hold ourselves with warmth in the midst of any circumstance.
Friends, may this reflection inspire you to live with greater gentleness towards yourselves. Let each breath be a reminder that there is nothing in us to be rejected. In full acceptance is true peace and, in peace, the clarity to live a full and conscious life.
This approach not only aligns with Zen teachings and Trungpa’s philosophy, but reflects the purpose of the Natural Spa Center: to provide a space to reconnect with oneself, based on compassion and respect for the totality of our being. Just as we care for our body through massage and rituals, we must also nurture our mind with kindness and acceptance. We invite you to explore our wellness activities and discover how each experience can help you find balance and harmony. View Wellness Activities Menu.
If you would like to learn more about these teachings and the legacy of the Zen Master, you can visit The Chronicles of Chögyam Trungpa, a site dedicated to preserving his teachings and exploring their cultural impact in the Western context: Chronicles of Chögyam Trungpa