With the hindrance of torpor, we also have to discuss the spiritual crisis known as depression and the lethargy that accompanies it. During the Buddha's lifetime, the word depression didn't really exist, yet there is nothing new about this age-old emotion known as despair. Today I speak to many men and women who express their despair; often they feel as though the fatigue of depression is robbing them of the energy to walk the spiritual path or even to keep living. Depression seems to overwhelm them with negativity and lethargy. They say it is hard to do anything when you feel as though you have lost your way and nothing you do can possibly matter.

   Depression typically carries an overwhelming sense of feeling abandoned, alone, exhausted and disconnected - profoundly weary from the difficult business of living. If this ever happens to you - and it happens to many of us at one time or another - self-enquiry need to be directed at ways in which you have abandoned or lost touch with yourself. When you're working on depression and other difficult life situations, it's important to summon your faith, fall back on soulful inner practices, and go for refuge where you can find spiritual solace. Try to remember to have faith in your own Buddha-nature, your own inner light, and seek guidance from a reliable teacher or Bodhisattva-like mentor who inspires spiritual wisdom and energy. Go for refuge to the Dharma by staying true to yourself and your sense that you are on the right path. And look to your friends and your sangha, or spiritual group of any denomination, for support.

   When you're feeling low or lethargic, place some trust in physical activity to mobilise your energy. Practice yoga, tai chi, breathing exercises and self-enquiry. Dynamic meditation gives back far more energy than it takes. It's very common for a person to arrive at a meditation centre exhausted and enervated. Yet if this person continues through the entire session, almost inevitably he or she will leave feeling energised. Even when we are heartbroken, a meditation retreat can help us to take heart.

   In my experience, however, I've often seen that people who are in the depths of despair may not benefit from the quieting effects of simple sitting meditation. Frequently what they need most is to get their energy moving and be less turned in upon themselves. So if you're in the middle of a depression, you may want to try more active spiritual activities like chanting, breathing, singing, praying or yoga. Meditative arts like gardening, caligraphy, tea ceremony or martial arts are often very helpful activities. Even vigorous walking, jogging or dancing can be beneficial. Also remember there is nothing in Buddhism that is incompatible with psychotherapy, and I often recommend it. We have to remember not to use meditation as a spiritual bypass, to avoid our psychological and daily life issues. And don't forget to find spiritual strength by reaching out to a spiritual community or some kind of support group.

   A meditation weekend always leaves me raring to go. Although meditation seems to take time and energy, it gives us back even more time, as well as a sense of spacious ease and clarity. The same can be said for the spiritual life. You truly do get back much more than you give. This is something you can see for yourself.