Olya Dzidzverg
November 13, 2023
3 min read
During my most challenging moments, when my heart feels tender and exposed, and when my soul is shaking from anxiety while awaiting the worst, I seek support for myself through acupuncture and from the insights of poets. Together, a well-crafted poem and acupuncture needle have the power to soothe the soul and prepare for the truths that await rediscovery during such times.
One such revered piece is the widely embraced poem ‘The Guest House’ by the 13th-century Persian poet Rumi. Often recited in acupuncturists’ circles, this poem serves as a gentle reminder to me not to resist the thoughts and emotions flowing through me but to face them with courage, warmth, and respect. Alongside certain Acupuncture points and relaxing techniques work with my body guiding me towards acceptance of whatever unfolds in my life.
The emotions like anxiety, angriness, or grief are likened to a purifying cleanse in this poem. These seemingly unwelcome guests in the guesthouse of one’s mind have the potential to scrub away everything that is untrue or unhelpful if one allows them to do so. Importantly, as mere guests, they will eventually depart. Here is the poem:
This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
As an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they’re a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.
The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
meet them at the door laughing and invite them in.
Be grateful for whoever comes, because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond
— Jalaluddin Rumi, translation by Coleman Barks (The Essential Rumi)
Hi, I’m Olya, a registered acupuncturist with the main focus on stress and anxiety . Connect with me if you need support of your body and mind during anxiety and trouble times.
