The Importance of Solitude and Seclusion

यस्त्वात्मरतिरेव स्यादात्मतृप्तश्च मानव: |
आत्मन्येव च सन्तुष्टस्तस्य कार्यं न विद्यते || (Bhagavad Gita 3.17)

“But those who rejoice in the self, who are illumined and fully satisfied in the self, for them, there is no duty.”

योगी युञ्जीत सततमात्मानं रहसि स्थित: |
एकाकी यतचित्तात्मा निराशीरपरिग्रह: || (Bhagavad Gita 6.10)

“Those who seek the state of Yog should reside in seclusion, constantly engaged in meditation with a controlled mind and body, getting rid of desires and possessions for enjoyment.”

The Buddha said: ‘Monks, apply yourself to solitude. One who does so will see things as they are.’ (S. III15).

“He who is unable to live in society, or who has no need because he is sufficient for himself, must be either a beast or a god.” — Aristotle

“Be alone, that is the secret of invention; be alone, that is when ideas are born.” — Nikola Tesla

“Solitude is a catalyst for innovation.” ― Mahatma Gandhi

“I live in that solitude which is painful in youth, but delicious in the years of maturity.” ― Albert Einstein

Incorporating these revered thoughts is a deliberate attempt to highlight how the profound significance of solitude has been echoed throughout our history.

To understand oneself, one must embrace solitude. Solitude is that sacred space where you withdraw from the world's chaos, allowing you to listen to the Universe's whispers and the word of God. It's a break from the constant external noise, enabling you to peacefully immerse yourself in the raw beauty of nature, which, in turn, unveils the universe's underlying truths.

To truly know yourself, you must first let go of your ego, your social identity, and even your physical presence. In solitude, in complete stillness, you become aware of your surroundings, letting thoughts flow in and out like a spectator. In this state, you uncover the truth of life. Solitude is not a passive state; it should be consciously and carefully understood. Importantly, it doesn't mean neglecting your responsibilities and duties.

The Buddha wisely warned, "One who goes into solitude will either sink to the bottom or rise to the top" (A.V.202).

The Journey from London to Jodhpur

Recently, I returned from London to my hometown, Jodhpur, and while I initially relished my time here, I soon felt an internal chaos creeping in. On reflection, I traced this unease to my pursuit of sensory pleasure through social interactions. In London, despite having a few good friends, I was often alone in solitude. There, I felt far from chaotic, discovering new insights about life almost daily. Looking back, I now realise it wasn't a challenge; my most profound moments were when I was alone, free from society's expectations.

Now in Jodhpur with my beloved family and friends, continuous social interactions have bred different expectations, ultimately leading to disappointments. My mind has become a whirlwind of diverse thoughts, sapping my energy and diverting my efforts. A simple reflection led me to recognise the importance of solitude, and to underscore this significance, I wrote this piece. Solitude is the most important tool in the journey of searching for truth.

One cannot truly know oneself without embracing solitude and seclusion. Solitude is a requisite, a path to connect with the Aatman (soul), the inner self. It's not about entirely forsaking society and idling away forever. Instead, it primarily concerns internal factors before external ones. Solitude involves disconnecting from worldly thoughts in the pursuit of life's meaning and purpose.