Word of the Day: Flux
When things are up in the air we might say that they are “in flux.” The phrase “in flux” describes something that is changing, unstable, and fluid. In other words it is used in times of change and to describe things that are not rigid. Change is a common fear or circumstance that causes discomfort for many folks.
Today we’ll explore the true meaning of the word flux through etymology. I hope this brings comfort in times of uncertainty.
flux (noun) :
the action or process of flowing or flowing out
(medicine) an abnormal discharge of blood or other matter from or within the body
continuous change
The 14th century definition of flux was “an abnormally copious flow” and the meaning “continuous changes” came later in the 1600s. Roots of the flux include Old French flus meaning “a flowing, a rolling, a bleeding” and Latin fluxus meaning “flowing, loose, slack.” Flux is also related to the Latin verb fluere meaning “to flow.”
The original meaning of flux was “flow.” We still see flow mentioned in the modern day definitions of flux, alongside the meaning of continuous change. We can think of continuous change as a flow as well. Imagine a river. Rivers are constantly changing due to the continuous movement of water, fluctuations in water level, erosion, sediment deposition, and the meandering path of the river’s flow.
The universe is constantly changing. This is believed to be due to it’s expansion. As we learned in an earlier exploration of the meaning of “universe,” all matter and all space exist within one whole — the universe. As we exist in this universe we also experience this constant change.
We feel change to varying degrees. Sometimes we experience big changes, like job shifts, death, relationship changes, and moving homes. Sometimes we experience subtle changes, like changes in weather or mood. Either way, we are all affected by change.
At times change can feel upsetting. There can be fear and anxiety present as we experience transformation. Remembering that flux is rooted in flow can assist in these times.
A phrase that comes to mind is “go with the flow.” In times where we feel like things are in flux, remember that flux is rooted in flow. The invitation is to surrender to the flow of life, like the flow of a river. Sometimes it will move quickly and sometimes it will settle. Worrying won’t stop the flow. Imagine this river rolling into a vast ocean of possibility as you learn to go with the flow.
