A state of constant anxiety, that does not give credence to the notion of practicing ‘calm abiding‘, is maintained in the modern world. The consistent acts of normalized rushing about preclude one giving more than surface consideration of others during interpersonal interactions. In fact, many have only a vague awareness of, and minimal interest in, deeper exploration of their own internal states. People who do commit to engaging in inner awareness practices can develop (a) sensitivity to more ably diffuse their more adverse internal states.
The concept of calm abiding outlines usable guidelines for the practice that can address the prevalence of anxiety that runs rampant in society. Modern society is currently deluged with distractions and intrusions. Individuals who have no compass by which to navigate through many of the stressors are more susceptible to instances of verbal outbursts, emotional strain, or unnecessary physicality. The compass functions as a guide to dealing with less than desirable states. It can point one toward a technique or practice that serves as a conduit for viewing, analyzing, and processing an approaching maladjusted state.
Many interactions between strangers are lacking of actual consideration for each other. We do not really take into account how another person might be experiencing a living existence. Meeting, talking, dialoguing are things that are unique to the human experience. They become rote due to one or both parties being preoccupied with the diversions that are intertwined into modern society. So, one may be talking with an individual while simultaneously thinking about something else. Presence and focus are fleeting, detrimentally so, in the modern world
That people do not care much about others may, in part, be due to them not being conscientious of their own well being. Many people buy into following trends. Their individuality is abandoned for acceptance into a larger group. This acceptance segues into one being viewed as normal. One is O.K. as long as society is deeming them to be O.K. The concern with acceptance is outward focused consideration. More important would be not how one processes the external world, social interactions, but their personal, inner dialogue. Having a firm grasp upon the inner state allows for calmness in nearly all circumstances.
Engendering a state of minimal stress can clear the way for improvements in personal health metrics. Through practicing ‘awareness’ the mental state can be brought into more balance, better equilibrium, and positive outlook. This can be acquired through various avenues. If a process or procedure brings one into focus on the task at hand, then it is meditative. Cleaning, Rolling (Dough), Tai Chi / Qigong, Yoga (posture and concentration), even walking can be positive activities in this regard. These can bring about a calming state. Yet, the practice of ‘Calm Abiding’ establishes a full connection with the depths of the inner
Being connected to our internal states allows one to direct their energies in a manner that is beneficent to themselves and to others. There is an internal disconnect that many, many individuals harbor unawares. The rampant prevalence of distraction runs contrary to persons relating to other individuals on a more connected level. Anxiety, distraction, and moodiness can be effectively counterbalanced through the practice of calm abiding.
Ab-Sutra Wellness and Fitness 