Equanimity

Abstract

Abstract Equanimity consists of an accepting and unattached disposition, and it facilitates more rapid physiological and emotional recovery following an acute stressor. Mindfulness and meditation practices, in general, are well-established methods of cultivating equanimity and exposure to such practices has been shown to correlate with self-reported, neuroimaging, and molecular indices of relevant clinical change. For example, mindfulness has been shown to promote equanimity through skills that improve distress tolerance and emotion regulation. Equanimity is valued in a range of cultures, faiths, and psychotherapies. Yet, mindfulness has come to the forefront in third-wave cognitive-behavioral therapies such as dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, mentalization-based treatment, and it is also apparent in psychodynamic psychotherapy. Equanimity can also be promoted through psychopharmacology in addition to psychotherapy, as we discuss in several clinical cases. We suggest that equanimity is valuable in a variety of clinical contexts, for both the patient and the psychiatrist.