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Gelassenheit

January 24, 2024

Gelassenheit is a German word that doesn't have a direct translation into English.

It is typically interpreted as "serenity." But it points to something deeper: a profound sense of calmness, composure, tranquility, and imperturbability, wrapped in an aura of poise within relaxation.

The aspect of this calmness I find most fascinating is that it arises from surrendering to something greater within our own brokenness. It is devoid of any hint of control or self-assertion.

In this way, gelassenheit lies beyond serenity. It is something awakened within us and experienced, but cannot be directly taught, directed, or brought about. It suggests a state reflective of an alignment between our inner and outer worlds.

Whether you are new to the art of unwinding or are very experienced, this gentle, tender spirit of gelassenheit is an essential companion to your journey.

Recently, as I battled an illness, my attempts to stay engaged with the outside world only seemed to force me back within myself. I constantly found myself reorienting to sensations of fever, body aches, cough, and sore throat. In the realm of control, concern, worry, illusions, and despair, I truly suffered.

But gradually, a natural surrender emerged within the illness itself. There was simply nothing else to do but yield to it and be present with it. There was no alternative beyond giving myself over to it.

Embracing gelassenheit may help us discover a space where we can find a release or relaxation—perhaps even a joy—within the discomforts of illness or pain. No energy or desire to go anywhere or to escape. . . just lying on the couch, snuggled up with my dog, sinking deeper into a world where the inner and outer realms align.

In the practice of self-unwinding, we inevitably encounter points of restriction, discomfort, and anxiety that instinctively demand a solution, a strategy, or at least a complaint.

This gentle and tender space of gelassenheit may provide an entry to an alternative.

It cannot be taught, but it can be experienced. We don't need to develop it. Just creating a bit of space may allow our natural gelassenheit to shine through.

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