Maxim
Make time for stillness.
“The (state of) vacancy should be brought to the utmost degree, and that of stillness guarded with unwearying vigour.”
Taoism · Ancient (before 200 BCE)
Translation: public-domain translation (Legge)
Watch on YouTube: All it takes is 10 mindful minutes | Andy Puddicombe ↗Andy Puddicombe discusses this idea
Much of our restlessness comes from never stopping. Contemplatives, philosophers and psalmists alike point to a quiet place within, always available, where we can rest, see clearly and return refreshed.
Related expressions
“it is in thy power whenever thou shalt choose to retire into thyself. For nowhere either with more quiet or more freedom from trouble does a man retire than into his own soul,”
“I have discovered that all the unhappiness of men arises from one single fact, that they cannot stay quietly in their own chamber.”
Watch on YouTube: The Art of Alone: Intentional Solitude ↗Niqolas Ruud discusses intentional solitude (TEDx)“Be still, and know that I am God:”
“we must reserve a backshop, wholly our own and entirely free, wherein to settle our true liberty, our principal solitude and retreat.”
Watch on YouTube: The School of Life: Montaigne ↗The School of Life introduces Montaigne
Score
Moral Rank 70.3 · Evidence E = 15.74
E = ln(1+2.99) + √2.99 + 3·2.71 + 1.5·3 = 15.74