Away from loneliness is being alone with one’s thoughts and emotions. Solitude can also represent a positive condition where one discovers freedom, peace and serenity, contrasting with loneliness, characterized by a yearning for companionship and a feeling of seclusion. Many philosophical and spiritual doctrines view solitude as a pathway to deeper insight and growth. They assert that being alone is a fundamental aspect of human existence. Instead of seeking fulfilment externally, genuine wisdom and satisfaction arise from within. For some, solitude offers an opportunity for meditation and introspection. It permits individuals to detach from the external world and focus on self-exploration, leading to heightened self-awareness and spiritual advancement in one’s own company.

The Hindu philosophy of non-dualism, Advaita Vedanta, suggests that being alone leads to recognizing one’s true essence (Atman) and its unity with Brahman, the ultimate reality. Through practices like self-inquiry, individuals can transcend the illusion of separation and realize their intrinsic unity with all existence. Many find that aloneness is conducive to reflecting on their lives. Individuals can impartially evaluate their emotions, thoughts, and actions when not influenced by external factors. This process can stimulate self-discovery and personal growth. Spiritually realized ones claim if you live your life in selfless service, more from the spirit and less from the mind’s constant emotional desires, with grace and respect, it fulfils life’s spiritual purpose. As a result, in such higher consciousness, you do not require any selective companionship. 

On the other hand, material living involves interrelatedness and interconnection to this world so that you can grow mentally, financially, and socially in a synergetic manner. We must know the need to utilize both equally for a wholesome life. Since living alone is challenging, surviving in this mad and forever-demanding world is complicated. Further, excessive isolation can also lead to loneliness and other challenges. As a result, you constantly wish for companionship so you are not left alone. You end up imitating others, copying and pasting borrowed knowledge, and showing off, trying to prove you are more intelligent than many. Yet, you remain a part of the crowd, losing your individuality, uniqueness, and potentiality, merging with others more for self-gratification. Consequently, I would say you live more in fear of being left in solitude. 

A moderate amount of solitude benefits mental health, as emotional regulation, focus, and stress management are all enhanced. A tranquil and uninterrupted environment is necessary to meditate effectively. People seek solitude to quiet their minds, establishing a connection with their inner selves through transcendental meditation, mindfulness, or concentration. Individuals delve deeper into their emotions and thoughts, gaining insights into their desires, worries, and motivations. Embracing a solitary lifestyle promotes self-reliance, encouraging individuals to make choices aligned with their values rather than seeking external validation.

One way to make the most of solitude is to view it as an opportunity for personal growth rather than a punishment. Perceptions of isolation can shift when individuals realize its potential to offer inner peace and personal development. Adjusting to solitude takes time, so gradually increasing time alone is advisable. It might involve short retreats, quiet reading sessions, or solitary strolls. Do keep in mind that if you are lonely, there is the absence of companionship, but in aloneness, you have the presence of yourself. Therefore, once you learn the art of loving your company, you do not depend on others for love. You become a giver of love, living existentially in meditative awareness in every moment of now.

Solitude offers numerous benefits for personal and spiritual growth. By embracing solitude, individuals can enhance their mental and emotional well-being, cultivate greater self-awareness, and unleash creativity. To fully appreciate the advantages of solitude, it is essential to distinguish between being alone and feeling lonely. Through various philosophical, psychological, and spiritual practices, individuals can learn to value and utilize solitude for self-discovery and inner tranquillity.

The core of meditation lies in finding happiness in being alone with oneself. Given that we enter and leave this life alone, the meditators immerse themselves in their solitude. Reflecting on embracing solitude is fundamental to human existence. Discover the beauty of solitude to transform into a new person and never feel lonely again. Remember, you will be blessed with divine grace if aloneness showers upon you, and you will be closer to the spirit and soul to check and guide your mind. So always keep your aloneness alive and be spiritual to balance that intense pressure necessitated upon us from our material world.

NAMASTE