Stoicism Daily Practice And Meditations

Zeno of Citium in Athens, around 300 BCE, teaching at the Stoa Poikile (Painted Porch).

Wisdom, Justice, Courage, Temperance.

Distinguish what is up to you (judgments, choices, intentions) from what is not (the body, reputation, others' actions). Focus energy only on the former.

Roman emperor (161-180 CE), wrote Meditations — private journal of Stoic reflections for self-improvement.

Former slave who taught philosophy in Rome and Nicopolis; works recorded by student Arrian as Discourses and Enchiridion.

Roman statesman, playwright, advisor to Nero; wrote Letters from a Stoic (Epistulae Morales) and On the Shortness of Life.

Premeditation of evils — visualize possible setbacks in advance to dull their sting and prepare your response.

Imagine yourself rising up, seeing your city, country, the planet, the cosmos — shrinks petty concerns, gives perspective.

'Remember you must die.' Not morbid — a reminder to use time well, drop trivial grievances, savor what's here.

Brief reflection: 'Today I will meet ungrateful, arrogant, deceitful people. None of this can harm me unless I let it.' (Aurelius).

Review the day: What did I do well? Poorly? What can I improve? — Seneca recommends this nightly examination.

Briefly imagine losing what you have (health, loved ones, possessions). Increases gratitude and reduces fragility.