The Stoics believed in cultivating inner peace from "summary" of Stoicism and Emotion by Margaret Graver
The Stoics were firm believers in the importance of cultivating inner peace as a key component of leading a virtuous and fulfilling life. They saw peace of mind as essential for achieving eudaimonia, or human flourishing. This inner tranquility was to be achieved by mastering one's emotions and desires, and by cultivating a sense of inner harmony and contentment. The Stoics believed that external events and circumstances were beyond our control, but how we react to them is within our power. By focusing on our inner state and cultivating a sense of equanimity, we can find a sense of peace that is not dependent on external factors. Central to the Stoic philosophy of inner peace was the idea of living in accordance with nature, or living in harmony with the rational order of the universe. This meant accepting the things that are outside of our control, such as the actions of others or the inevitable changes and challenges of life. By accepting these things with equanimity and inner calm, we can avoid unnecessary suffering and turmoil. The Stoics believed that by cultivating a sense of inner peace, we can become better equipped to face life's challenges with wisdom and resilience. One of the key practices the Stoics recommended for cultivating inner peace was the discipline of desire. This involved training oneself to desire only those things that are within our control, such as our own thoughts and actions. By letting go of attachment to external things and focusing instead on developing virtues such as wisdom, courage, and justice, we can find a sense of inner contentment that is not dependent on external circumstances. This inner tranquility allows us to navigate the ups and downs of life with grace and composure. Another important aspect of cultivating inner peace in the Stoic tradition was the practice of mindfulness. By paying attention to our thoughts and emotions with a sense of detachment and self-awareness, we can gain insight into our own inner workings and learn to respond to them with wisdom and compassion. This practice of self-reflection and self-awareness allows us to cultivate a sense of inner peace that is grounded in self-knowledge and self-mastery.- The Stoics believed that cultivating inner peace was essential for living a virtuous and fulfilling life. By mastering our emotions and desires, living in harmony with nature, and practicing mindfulness and self-awareness, we can find a sense of inner tranquility that is not dependent on external circumstances. This inner peace allows us to face life's challenges with wisdom and resilience, and to live a
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