**Deep okayness** is the absence of self-criticism, as [described](https://sashachapin.substack.com/p/how-i-attained-persistent-self-love) by writer Sasha Chapin. It is similar to Angel Kyodo Williams' [idea](https://unknowing.podbean.com/e/belonging-beyond-binaries-with-revangel-kyodo-williams/) of **basic okayness**. In both senses, this is a recognition of one's natural state of being, released from the expectations of the transcendent [[freedom]] advocated by religion. Deep okayness is one's personal recognition of inherent dignity regardless of status or achievement, a self love that persists through mistakes and adversity. It stems from a felt [[sense-of-truth]] that acknowledges [[non-duality]] and [[generic subjective continuity]] while maintaining the artificial boundary between oneself and the universe. One practitioner [describes](https://mitpress.mit.edu/9780262547109/the-elephant-and-the-blind/) it as “the realization of having finally found home after an eternal search. The pathological searching, the agony of control, comes to an abrupt end, and for the first time you realize what it means to be alive.” Deep okayness is the stillness that lies underneath the turbulence of life. For me, it is a felt experience (that I often forget) below my daily obligations. It is an awareness of my center of gravity, the point within my body where there is no movement at all, whatever my pace of life. This is a form of internal assurance, a sense of being *here, now* below the daily obligations of my life. Deep okayness is accessible to everyone, at any time, though it may require some coaching to realize. %%