Philosophy does not need to be an abstract concept, confined to the halls of academia. On the contrary, it can be a vital guide to a life well lived. One philosophy that has stood the test of time and continues to be relevant is Stoicism. If you have ever asked yourself “How can I practice Stoicism?” So you are in the right place.
Understanding Stoicism
Stoicism is a school of Hellenistic philosophy founded by Zeno of Citium. It is a practical philosophy that emphasizes self-discipline, personal ethics, acceptance of the flow of life and the search for internal tranquility.
Understanding the fundamental concept and principles of Stoicism is the key to answering the question – “Stoicism, how to practice?”
Fundamental Principles of Stoicism
Acceptance
One of the first things the Stoics teach us is that we must resolve to accept things as they are. We cannot control everything that happens to us, but we can control our reactions to those events.
Mental Attitude
Stoics believe that our mind plays a crucial role in how we interpret and react to events around us. We need to train our mind to respond in a healthy and resilient way to adversity.
Now that we understand the basic principles, let’s move on to the practical steps on “how to practice Stoicism”.
How to Practice Stoicism in Everyday Life
Practice of Stoic Meditation
Practicing Stoic meditation is like starting your day on the right foot. This practice involves reflecting on our actions, choices and experiences.
Resistance Exercise
Stoics practice resisting discomfort to expand their comfort zone. An example of this could be practicing fasting to learn to deal with the feeling of hunger.
Practice of Gratitude
Stoics promote gratitude as a way to appreciate life, even in its most difficult moments. It's important to regularly ponder the things we are grateful for.
Stoic Diary
Writing a Stoic journal is a way to reflect on the day and keep your mind focused on your goals and values.
Conclusion
How to practice Stoicism is an individual and gradual process. With consistency, these simple, reflective practices can lead to a life of tranquility and purpose. Whether you're new to philosophy or someone simply looking for new ways to connect with yourself and the world around you, Stoicism offers a powerful tool for emotional and mental well-being.
