In short: upekkha is equanimity, a steady, balanced mind that stays open when things are pleasant or painful, praised or blamed. It is the fourth brahmavihara and the last of the seven factors of awakening. It is not indifference: it is care without being knocked over.
In the Buddha’s words
They meditate spreading a heart full of equanimity to one direction, and to the second, and to the third, and to the fourth. In the same way above, below, across, everywhere, all around, they spread a heart full of equanimity to the whole world—abundant, expansive, limitless, free of enmity and ill will.
DN 13, translated by Bhikkhu Sujato (CC0)
Practise
- Equanimity meditation.
- Reflect on the eight worldly conditions and praise and blame.
- See impermanence: anicca.
Common misunderstandings
- Equanimity is not coldness. It is care that does not get knocked over.
- It is not giving up. You still act; you do not cling to the result.
- It is not numbness. You feel things fully and let them pass.
Try this: when something pleasant or unpleasant happens, say 'this too will change' and let your shoulders drop.
Glossary: Buddhist terms · the four brahmaviharas · Pali pronunciation
Questions people ask
What does upekkha mean?
Upekkha is equanimity: a balanced, steady mind that is not swept away by pleasure, pain, praise or blame.
Is equanimity indifference?
No. Equanimity is warm and caring but not tossed about; indifference is cold and withdrawn.
How do I develop it?
By seeing that experiences come and go, and by practising with the eight worldly conditions and the brahmaviharas.