History

• Solitude has long been practiced as a lifestyle, and recognized for its value in human experience. In the 4th century B.C., the Greek philosopher Diogenes renounced society to live in a large storage jar. He attracted followers seeking his wisdom, including Alexander the Great. On the eve of his great march from Macedonia to the Hindu Kush, Alexander visited Diogenes. Some of Alexander's men ridiculed the philosopher, but Alexander silenced them with the simple statement: "If I were not Alexander, I would be Diogenes."
  
  Throughout history, the monastic tradition always has included solitude: sixth century A.D. Celtic Christian monks lived as hermits on islands of Ireland and Great Britain; European and Middle Eastern monasteries flourished in the Middle Ages. Solitude remains an important aspect of religious communities worldwide.
  
  

Defining Personal Solitude

• Orchids
  
  For many Americans, solitude is a short respite from a busy day, such as a bubble bath or a walk around the block. But anyone can spontaneously connect to his or her own version of solitude at many other times. One person may find solitude by saying a prayer or listening to a favorite piece of music. Another may find solitude making a cake, watching children play, admiring a flower or simply looking up at the clouds in the sky. The simplest solitary activity or experience can induce feelings of well-being, comfort, contentment, self-awareness and reflection; these are all manifestations of solitude.
  
  

Finding Solitude Anywhere

• Aerial view of Greenland
  
  Location and surroundings may have little or nothing to do with one's personal version of solitude, which can be found anywhere, even in crowds. It does not always require silence or isolation. Glance out the imaginary airplane window to the left at the aerial view of Greenland. It may trigger thoughts of both logic and imagination. Consider the plane's speed and altitude at the time the photo was taken, the height of the mountains in the scene. Speculate on the weather, animals and people below. The act of reading this article, looking at the photos and thinking about its contents is a form of solitude.
  
  Solitude is a state of mind, not a place.
  
  

Misconceptions

• Isle of Barra, Outer Hebrides, Scotland
  
  Solitude is not solitary confinement, not a punishment. Being alone, physically or mentally, does not naturally equate to loneliness. For those accustomed to ambient noise and constant activity, the concept of solitude itself may seem foreign and even undesirable. Yet regenerating the self by solitude is as natural and important as sleep, sustenance and human interaction.
  
  

Benefits

• North Sea sunrise, Scarborough, Yorkshire, England
  
  Just as sleep builds memory and repairs the body, solitude can refresh and restore the spirit. According to psychologist Ester Buchholz, research has shown that solitude also helps put more balance in one's life, increases natural creativity and problem-solving abilities, and even improves relationships, including spousal intimacy. Solitude also reinforces independence and self-reliance.
  
  Both Alexander and Diogenes would agree.
  
  Find moments of inner connectedness, anytime, anywhere.
  
  That's solitude.