Stoicism & Nature
Achieving Alignment in a Chaotic World
Greetings, fellow seekers of wisdom! Welcome back to Applying Stoicism. Today, we take a step outside and explore Stoicism's unique perspective on nature, and how aligning ourselves with it can help us navigate our chaotic modern world.
Stoicism and the Concept of Nature
For Stoic philosophers, "following nature" was a central doctrine. But what does this mean? Essentially, it is to understand and live in accordance with nature's laws and our own human nature. This involves recognizing the interconnectedness of all things and the natural order of the universe, as well as accepting the cycle of change and impermanence.
Understanding the Universe
The Stoics saw the universe as a rational, orderly system, guided by a divine reason they called the "Logos." They believed that everything in the universe unfolds exactly as it should, and even events that seem chaotic or random are part of this broader, logical order.
Applying this to our lives, we can strive to understand our place within this larger system and accept the flow of events as part of a grand design. This does not mean we should passively accept everything that happens. Instead, it's about acknowledging the larger forces at play and focusing on what we can control - our actions, reactions, and attitudes.
Embracing Our Human Nature
"Living according to nature," for the Stoics, also meant acknowledging and embracing our specific human nature. Humans, they believed, are rational and social beings. Hence, we should strive to cultivate reason and foster healthy relationships.
We're called to use our rational abilities to understand the world and make wise decisions. Moreover, recognizing our social nature pushes us to contribute to society, engage in mutual aid, and practice justice and kindness.
Accepting Change
Nature is in a constant state of flux - seasons change, stars move, rivers flow. The Stoics saw this as a reflection of the natural order. Things come into being, transform, and eventually pass away.
From a Stoic perspective, accepting the impermanence of things can free us from fear and anxiety. It allows us to appreciate the present, adapt to change, and maintain tranquility, even in the face of loss.
Practical Ways to Align with Nature
1. Spend Time in Nature: This can cultivate a sense of connection with the larger universe and remind us of the natural order of things.
2. Practice Mindfulness: Paying attention to the present moment can help us accept the flow of life and adapt to change.
3. Cultivate Rationality: This could involve learning new things, questioning our beliefs, or engaging in philosophical discussions.
4. Foster Community: Building strong, positive relationships aligns with our social nature. This can involve supporting others, practicing empathy, and engaging in acts of kindness.
5. Practice Acceptance: When facing change or loss, we can remind ourselves of the impermanence of things and strive to accept rather than resist.
In Conclusion
Achieving alignment with nature, from a Stoic perspective, is about understanding our place in the universe, embracing our human nature, and accepting the flow of life. It's a potent antidote to the chaos and overwhelm of modern living.
In our next post, we will explore how to tame our emotions using Stoic philosophy. Until then, remember Marcus Aurelius's timeless wisdom: "Adapt yourself to the things among which your lot has been cast and love sincerely the fellow creatures with whom destiny has ordained that you shall live."
Let's continue our journey in Stoicism, practicing, reflecting, and growing together, one day at a time.