Pema Chödrön
8 key ideas, each explained in our own words.
When Things Fall Apart
- IDEA 1
Falling apart can teach us
Chödrön, a Buddhist nun and teacher, suggests that times when life falls apart, through loss, illness or failure, can be opportunities for growth. Instead of rushing to fix or escape them, we can learn from them.
- IDEA 2
Life has no firm ground
Chödrön describes groundlessness, the realisation that nothing in life is certain or permanent. Accepting this reduces panic. Chödrön suggests that when we stop expecting solid ground, we can relax into whatever comes.
- IDEA 3
Lean into fear
Chödrön encourages turning towards fear rather than running from it. Facing fear with curiosity can transform it. Chödrön suggests that running from fear usually keeps it alive, while looking at it closely can loosen its hold.
Go deeper with Pema ChödrönAsk questions, argue with the ideas and practise using them, free.
Open in the app