Courage For Me Is Not The Absence Of Fear But Being Able To Act Despite The Fear: Lisa Ray
Lisa Ray, an internationally acclaimed performer, philanthropist, actor and writer is truly multifaceted in each sense.
She strongly advocates the significance of mental health and believes that the taboos formed against it should be detached from the society. She says that she is a work in progress and has a totally different definition of success.
In a candid conversation with Dr Annurag Batra, Chairman & Editor Chief, BW Businessworld and exchange4media Group, Lisa Ray shared the highs and lows of her journey, secret of good mental health and more.
Speaking about her personal journey Ray said, “I have had unique experiences in life like dealing with life threatening cancer. Even exploring my identity or reason for this human life and finding answers to some questions have equipped me with a lot of coping mechanisms or tools to be able to deal with change.”
When asked about how she is spending time in lockdown, Ray said, “What we have been going through in the world collectively is something that we have not seen in recent modern history. I have been keeping very busy writing the second book and this isolation is welcomed. I have worked on reframing time and it has been a real teaching, my relationships have really strengthened.”
She added, “I also do a lot of meditation. When you sit in silence and do not allow your logical mind to function, sometimes magic happens. Instead of denying fear, anxiety and stress that comes up, I embrace it. We have a tendency to think that insecurity is very dangerous and anxiety is something to be ashamed of. These are simply part of the human condition.”
She believes that life tends to change when it gives you an opportunity for greater self- development. She shared that in her personal journey, she had experienced greatest professional height at a time of her darkest emotional low.
Speaking about mental health, Ray said, “Getting into the habit of checking in your mind, body, spirit and space is essential for good mental wellbeing. Deep listening and checking in with our friends is really important. Obstacles make us more empowered, empathetic and way better human beings as well.”
She emphasised that it is we who are responsible for our own happiness and we should not lean on anybody else to be happy.
Ray further added, “I have been on an emotional and psychological roller-coaster because of news items and the suffering in the world. Over consuming news is not healthy, you are allowed to switch off and consume news mindfully.”
She stressed the importance of honouring one’s emotions in such difficult times and accepting them as it is core to mental wellbeing.
Speaking about cultural practices and traditions, Ray said, “We have to re-examine our cultural practices through the lens of doubt. Extremely old traditions lose their relevance without constantly evolving. We need to create inner strength and stop seeking validation from others.”
She expressed her wish to live much closer to nature as it is very healing and therapeutic. She would also like to spend more of her time in introspection, spirituality and connecting with people.
