Most of us love the joy of travelling to new places, discovering new locales, and observing the panorama of life there. There is yet another pilgrimage, more exciting than journeying to the Pacific, the Himalayas, or Mars. It is the excursion within our own selves, which unearths secrets related to the mysteries of the mind, intellect, ego, and soul. It is the most profitable expedition we can undertake, for it reveals treasures within, of everlasting joy. What a pity that so few are inspired to embark on the inner journey! Or if they do, to persist until the goal is reached.
This journey into our inner recesses is greatly facilitated by the practice of solitude. We do not have to go into the forest. Instead, for some time every day, we can go into the deep recesses of our own mind.
The Need for Solitude in Modern Times
In today’s world, technology is everywhere, and it is hardly surprising that our “me time” has reduced. Digital devices make us feel connected to the world 24/7. Every time we get a chance to go running, we plug in our headphones.
The irony is that with all the noise and clamor blaring at us from virtual space, huge segments of the population feel lonelier than ever before. The reason for this loneliness is not lack of external company, but an internal disconnect. They make no time to sit down and connect with their own selves. Without it, they are unable clarify their inner conflicts and nourish their soul.
Solitude Allows Our Brain to Relax
The endless chatter of electronic media all around provides constant stimulation to the brain. However, an overworked brain that is always in the overactive mode gets worn-down easily. As a sensitive organ, it needs rest to recuperate itself. Solitude helps us block out the street noise, traffic sounds, conversations, barking dogs, and TV. This facilitates the brain’s mending and relaxation. It allows the brain to unwind and reboot. This is no different from the engines in our cars and the computers in our offices. Constant use, without interceding rest, leads to greater wear-and-tear. Just as they require regular shutting off, our body and mind, too, need the “down time”.
Set Up a Time for Solitude
When we talk of solitude, it conjectures for many people images of going on a solo trek for a fortnight, and shutting oneself off in a cabin for a month, or moving into a monastery. These activities can undoubtedly offer a sizeable dose of solitude, but such radical isolation is not feasible for most of us, at least not on a regular basis. Instead, we can integrate “isolation hour” into our daily schedule itself. It does not require extra money or labour.
So, do enrich your life by savouring the solace of quietude every day. To ensure that it is not sacrificed, we should set apart a fixed timeslot for solitude on a daily basis. This becomes doubly advantageous because a habit kicks in. The moment the time of the day comes, the brain itself triggers the inspiration, “It is time for sadhana (spiritual practice in solitude).”
Find a Place for Contemplation
We can also set up a special place for solitude. Do note that on visiting a house of worship, our mind naturally experiences peace. Our thoughts turn more sacred and reverential. When we go to the market, our thoughts turn to needs and requirements. And on a trip to the countryside, our thoughts slow down, while the mind takes on an expansive nature.
We can similarly create a sacred environment in our home, by setting up a room with an altar. After a few months, the environment will work as a trigger. Merely entering it will set off contemplative thoughts.
Favourite Pastime of Great Personalities
Read the biographies of legendary figures in history, who made a huge impact on the world, and you will find that virtually all of them spent considerable amounts of time “thinking” and planning in solitude. This includes social and political leaders whose views changed the direction of humankind. And, of course, the great prophets who uplifted the lives of billions with their philosophies and teachings. We too must invest some of our time in solitude if we wish to develop noble thoughts.
These powerful techniques are explained in detail by best-selling author, Swami Mukundananda, in his latest book, The Power of Thoughts, soon to be released by Penguin Ananda
