Anitya: Impermanence as the Key to Liberation

The word Anitya comes from Sanskrit and means impermanence. This fundamental concept, at the heart of Buddhist teachings, reminds us that everything in existence is transient, in constant transformation. Embracing Anitya in our lives opens the door to deep inner peace, freedom, and conscious presence.

1. What is Anitya?

In Buddhist philosophy, Anitya is one of the three marks of existence, along with Dukkha (suffering) and Anātman (non-self). It means:

Everything that is born is destined to change or disappear.

Nothing is permanent: not emotions, possessions, relationships, or even thoughts.

Suffering arises from our attachment to what is meant to evolve.

Anitya should not be seen as fatality but as an invitation to awareness and letting go.

2. Impermanence in Daily Life

We all experience impermanence:

An intense emotion that eventually fades.

A moment of joy that passes and makes room for something else.

A precious object that breaks or is lost.

Recognizing this means accepting the natural flow of life. It does not mean loving less or disengaging—it means living fully, without clinging to what cannot last.

3. The Benefits of Accepting Anitya

Less emotional suffering: knowing that everything passes prevents us from being trapped in negative states.

More gratitude: we learn to savor the present moment, knowing it is precious and unique.

Greater inner freedom: we free ourselves from the illusion of control and permanence.

Stronger presence: life is better lived when it’s experienced moment by moment.

4. Meditating on Anitya with a Mandala

The mandala is a powerful tool for contemplating impermanence. Its circular structure reflects cycles of birth, growth, and dissolution. Some mandalas, like sand mandalas, are created only to be destroyed—fully embodying the principle of Anitya.

Gazing at a mandala, breathing with it, or simply contemplating it can become a meditative ritual for integrating the wisdom of change into your life.

Conclusion

Anitya invites us to live in harmony with the deep truth of existence: everything changes, everything passes, and through this, life constantly renews itself. Welcoming this reality with kindness brings a serenity that no longer depends on outer circumstances.

The Sereinest Team

At Sereinest, we believe every mandala can serve as a visual reminder of this wisdom. Explore our creations and let Anitya transform the way you see life.