BENEFITS OF SOLITUDE
While great attention is devoted to the perceived negative aspects of being alone, surprisingly little has been written about the positive attributes of silence and solitude. Our most celebrated thinkers and pundits tend to reflect the prevailing view that humans are social, gregarious, and crowd-loving animals by nature. Many insist that a desire to separate from the group is somehow a dysfunctional or even a hostile act. A growing number of commentators, however, offer alternate interpretations of human needs, desires, and behaviours. Here are some of the most frequently observed associations with quiet alone-time. What would you add to this list?
• Healing during stress, mourning, or other trauma.
• Improved concentration.
• Access to religious, spiritual, or mystical experiences.
• Better problem-solving abilities.
• Liberation from unwanted distractions.
• Effective pain management skills.
• The rich company of one’s mind, body, and spirit.
• Expanded self-understanding.
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