7 STOIC PRINCIPLES FOR INNER PEACE | STOICISM
Fellow Stoics, do you feel you can find inner calm even with all the noise today? Imagine handling life's ups and downs as calmly as a tranquil lake, no matter how turbulent it becomes. Sounds too wonderful to be true? Not exactly!
In this video, we will explore seven life-changing activities that Stoicism gives to lead you towards this deep inner calm that most times appears distant. These aren't simply mere notions or theories; they're practical things you can actually practice every day. If you want some serenity in the mayhem, stay with me. As usual, if you're new here and looking for more of this Stoic wisdom, hit the notification button and subscribe. Do it for yourself, as a vow to venture towards wisdom, understanding, and peace.
Now, fellow Stoics, shall we begin?
One: Journal frequently. There's magic in the written word—a type of alchemy that turns raw emotion into gold on paper. Have you ever had a flurry of emotions or a clamor of thoughts that seemed too muddled to understand? When sentiments become a tempest, writing them down can be like opening a window in a stifling room, letting in fresh air and clarity. Journaling isn't simply about recounting the day's happenings; it's an inward journey, a quiet chat with oneself.
Today, where our thoughts are inundated with limitless streams of information and our emotions are ephemeral reflexes, slowing down to journal can be a great grounding activity. It's like putting up a mirror to our soul, making sense of our sensations and confirming our convictions. It doesn't matter if you're typing on a contemporary iPad or scribbling in a worn-out notebook; the process of spilling your essence onto a page brings a particular type of peace. So, as the sun sets, consider setting aside a few quiet moments to appreciate this ancient Stoic discipline. Pen on paper or fingers on keys can well be a gentle symphony of inner tranquility.
Two: Engage in philosophical thought. Imagine a spot, a specific area in your mind where you can retreat and explore life's mysteries—not just the great cosmic questions but also the everyday wonders. Why did that comment from a coworker remain in your thoughts? Why does the sight of a setting sun bring warmth to your heart? Philosophical meditation isn't about sitting cross-legged and focusing on your breath; it's a deeper dive, an inquiry into the enormous oceans of thought and emotion that constitute the human experience.
A wise man once observed that to meditate is to walk through the garden of one's mind. Every day, as you manage life's twists and turns, take a moment to meander through this garden. Observe the thoughts that bloom, the emotions that flutter like butterflies, and the beliefs rooted deep in the soil of your existence. Philosophical meditation doesn't demand answers; instead, it celebrates the questions, the wonder, and the boundless possibility of human contemplation. Amidst the clamor of existence, the sweet, soothing notes of your inner symphony play on—all you need to do is listen.
Three: Use the raised perspective approach. Ever climbed to the top of a hill or stood on a balcony far above the city? Everything appears so little, so insignificant from up there. People appear like ants, the cars like small toys, and huge skyscrapers resemble Lego creations. This viewpoint, this vision from above, has an incredible tendency to make our largest concerns look insignificant, reminding us of our place in the enormous expanse of the cosmos.
When we find ourselves tangled in the thicket of life's troubles, sometimes all we need is to elevate our viewpoint. Seneca succinctly remarked, "We are but waves in the vast ocean of existence." Think about that: waves rise, they crash, and then they blend back into the ocean, only for more waves to form. Our troubles, fears, and even joys are much like these waves—temporary and ephemeral. By embracing the view from above, we comprehend the fleeting nature of our concerns and allow ourselves to ride the currents of existence more gracefully.