The Importance of Solitude: Reconnecting With Your Inner Self
Our lives are so inundated with communication it’s overwhelming – text messages, emails, phone calls, the internet. And we’ve read a million articles reminding us how addicted we are to these things, yet it’s difficult to free ourselves from the clutches of these distractions. Maybe, it’s time to consider the benefits of solitude and carve out time to isolate ourselves from the interminable notifications of our interconnected world.
Sitting with One’s Thoughts: A Shocking Statistic
In 2014, a study published in the journal Science found that most people would rather shock themselves than sit undisturbed with their thoughts. Even after experiencing the shock before the trial and saying they would pay money not to be shocked again, 25 percent of women and 67 percent of men chose to shock themselves while sitting alone for 15 minutes. One of the participants even decided to shock himself 190 times in that period, but that person’s masochism is beside the point.
Unsurprisingly, results showed the majority of subjects did not enjoy their time sitting alone and being asked to simply think. Half of these participants rated their experience at, or below, a level of “somewhat enjoyable,” while most ranked it highly on a boredom scale.
Why is it so difficult for us to go inward and block out external stimuli? One theory claims it’s an evolutionary survival mechanism. Known as the Scanner Hypothesis, some researchers believe that as mammals we’ve evolved to monitor our environments for both danger and opportunity. Therefore, our brains consider doing nothing a waste of time.
But we evolved to be more than mere mammals behaving on natural instinct, or at least we have the ability to transcend those instincts if we consciously choose to do so. That’s what separates man from beast, right?
Unfortunately, our lives aren’t always conducive to the ascetic lifestyle, and taking a sabbatical to go live like a certain civilly disobedient poet at Walden Pond isn’t always in the cards. So, what can the average person do to escape the torpor of our stimulus saturated society?
Unplugging from Technology
How many times have you been waiting in line at the store, or sitting in a waiting room scrolling through social media before realizing you’ve retained almost nothing you just consumed? Think about it next time you’re casually scrolling through Facebook or Instagram, try to remember what you saw five posts ago – our mindless consumption is scary sometimes.
Alas, we must stay connected — we’re expected to. But if we devote an entire hour every day to rid ourselves of those connections, the psychological benefits may be pleasantly surprising.
The next step is to sit alone with your monkey mind, as the Buddhists refer to it, and go inward. Not so shockingly, the minority of subjects in the aforementioned study who enjoyed spending 15 minutes doing nothing, often had experience with meditation. Learning to accept the endless flow of thoughts and opinions crowding our minds is the first hurdle of meditation and mindfulness, and it’s not easy. But there’s no learning or achievement in anything easy. The work is in the pain and struggle; that’s the only way to grow and accomplish anything in life.
Sensory Deprivation Tanks a.k.a. Isolation Tanks
John C. Lilly invented the sensory deprivation tank in 1954 in an attempt to isolate the mind from all external stimuli. Lilly was interested in studying the depths of our psyche, and throughout his life frequently transcended numerous realms of consciousness. He even devised a scale for it based on the Buddhist enlightenment concept of Satori.
Today, sensory deprivation tanks have seen an explosion in popularity, especially over the past decade. Filled with hundreds of pounds of salt, these tanks allow for maximum buoyancy and are typically pitch black. Users experience disorienting weightlessness, where physical sensation disappears, leaving only the mind.
Most find float tanks pleasant and therapeutic; an environment for introspection, meditation, and tranquility. This abandonment of all sensory perception can lead to psychedelic experiences and profound personal insight. And floating around in a dark tub of water prohibits technological distraction, forcing the confrontation of the monkey mind.
Retreats and Isolation from Society
Those in need of a life-changing event or paradigm shift may need to devote a little more effort to finding solitude. Silent retreats are one way to disconnect from the world and they’ve become increasingly popular with the rise of Eastern spiritual practices in the Western world. Participants in these retreats take a vow of silence for days or weeks in order to go inward, while also cultivating self-discipline.
Jesse Itzler took the isolation retreat to the next level by temporarily living in a monastery in upstate New York. Itzler’s goal was to radically disconnect himself from the chaos of modern society and his fast-paced life as a successful entrepreneur. So, he spent two weeks living among a group of Russian Orthodox monks who spent much of their day in silent contemplation.
On his first night at 6:00 p.m., Itzler was brought to a modest room called a cell, with nothing but a desk and a bed. He was told to be ready the following day for prayer, meditation, and reflection at 7:15 a.m. Asking what he was supposed to do in the 13 hours until then, he was simply told to think.
Itzler had some experience with meditation, so to assuage his initial anxiety and boredom, he did so. After closing his eyes and attempting to silence his mind, Itzler believed he had meditated for hours until he looked at his watch and realized only three-and-a-half minutes had elapsed. Thus, began the longest two weeks of his life. In the end, he said the disconnection from society changed him for the better and improved personal relationships with his wife, family, and friends. But it wasn’t easy.
No matter which method is best for you, the scientific benefits of solitude and disconnection from the world are countless. Solitude is proven to boost productivity, build mental acuity, increase empathy, and harbor creativity. So, whether you decide to commit an hour, day, week, or even months to finding your solitude and reconnecting with your inner self… do it, especially if it’s difficult.
Watch Hide Away, a movie telling the story of a successful, but emotionally drained businessman who finds solitude on a journey into the refuge of nature:
About the Author
The 12 Zodiac Signs: Dates And Meanings
Astrology is an ancient tool that seeks to understand how the stars influence people’s personality, emotions, and life cycles. Each zodiac sign reflects a specific quality of solar energy, associated with the time of year we are born. In this article, we explore what the zodiac signs are, what their dates are, and what each one means.
Table of Contents
- What Are The Zodiac Signs?
- One By One: The 12 Zodiac Signs
- Aries (March 21 – April 19)
- Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
- Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
- Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
- Leo (July 23 – August 22)
- Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
- Libra (September 23 – October 22)
- Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
- Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
- Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)
- Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)
- Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
- Elements That Influence Each Zodiac Sign’s Personality
What Are The Zodiac Signs?
Zodiac signs are twelve divisions of the sky aligned with the apparent path of the Sun throughout the year, as seen from Earth. Each sign covers a specific time frame within the solar calendar and is associated with certain personality traits. When a person is born, the Sun is located in one of these sections, which determines their “sun sign.”
Beyond the sun sign, astrology considers many other elements such as the position of the Moon, the ascendant, and the planets. However, the sun sign is one of the main foundations, as it describes the type of vital energy that guides a person: their essence, motivation, and style of expression. That’s why it’s the most well-known starting point for understanding the birth chart.
Each sign has a symbol, an element (fire, earth, air, or water), a modality (cardinal, fixed, or mutable), and a ruling planet. These aspects work together and explain how that energy manifests in daily life. Knowing your sign and its traits can help you better understand your reactions, relationships, and decisions.
One By One: The 12 Zodiac Signs
Each zodiac sign has a unique personality, shaped by its element, modality, and ruling planet. Below, we explore the main traits of each, their dates, and the energies that define them. This guide will help you recognize the most prominent qualities of each sign and understand how they express themselves in everyday life.
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Aries marks the beginning of the zodiac cycle and symbolizes the birth of energy. People born under this sign tend to have a determined, intense, and action-oriented personality. They enjoy taking the initiative, moving fast, and overcoming challenges without looking back. Their direct style may seem impulsive, but it stems from an internal need to keep moving forward.
Aries is driven by the desire to lead and break new ground, which makes it a sign associated with courage and competitiveness. It’s common for those with the Sun in Aries to act before thinking, but they are also capable of inspiring others with their enthusiasm. When they channel their energy consciously, they can make great strides in a short time and become inspiring leaders.
- Element: Fire
- Modality: Cardinal
- Ruling Planet: Mars
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
Taurus represents the strength of consistency and the connection to the tangible. People of this sign value security, emotional stability, and sensory pleasures. They tend to have calm and steady energy, which makes them reliable and patient. They enjoy slow rhythms and building a solid foundation, both in relationships and in material life.
Although they can be stubborn when they feel something threatens their balance, they also have a great ability to sustain what they value with commitment. Taurus needs time to decide, but once they do, they rarely change course. Their connection to nature, the body, and art helps them enjoy the present and find beauty in simplicity.
- Element: Earth
- Modality: Fixed
- Ruling Planet: Venus
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Gemini is the sign of the agile mind, communication, and adaptability. Geminians often stand out for their curiosity, constant need to learn, and ability to talk to anyone about any topic. They shift interests easily, keeping them in motion and making them highly versatile in any environment.
This mental energy can make them appear restless or scattered, but it also allows them to see connections others don’t notice. Gemini lives in constant pursuit of new ideas, experiences, and people. Their ability to communicate, connect, and understand different perspectives is one of their greatest strengths.
- Element: Air
- Modality: Mutable
- Ruling Planet: Mercury
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Cancer is the sign that represents sensitivity, home, and deep emotions. People born under this energy tend to be protective, intuitive, and deeply connected to their inner world. They care about creating a safe environment, both for themselves and for those they love, and often develop strong ties with family or emotional roots.
Although they may seem reserved at first, once they feel safe, they show great warmth and the ability to care for others. They are also people with a strong emotional memory, which makes them empathetic, though it can sometimes lead them to cling to the past. Their energy seeks to nurture and be nurtured, both physically and emotionally.
- Element: Water
- Modality: Cardinal
- Ruling Planet: Moon
Leo (July 23 – August 22)
Leo symbolizes personal expression, creativity, and the desire to shine in their own light. Leonine individuals tend to have a strong, confident, and charismatic presence. They enjoy standing out, sharing their enthusiasm with others, and feeling recognized for what they do. There is a vital energy in them that drives them to create, lead, and celebrate life.
Beneath their apparent confidence, Leo also needs to feel valued and loved. When they find that balance, they can inspire generously and become role models for those around them. Their talent for encouraging, organizing, and motivating is part of their expressive and passionate nature.
- Element: Fire
- Modality: Fixed
- Ruling Planet: Sun
Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
Virgo is a sign associated with observation, logic, and the need to improve what surrounds them. People born under this energy tend to be practical, detail-oriented, and analytical. They like to organize, solve problems, and feel useful in their environment. They have a strong sense of duty and often strive to do things the right way.
Sometimes they can become overly demanding with themselves and others, as they seek perfection as a way to maintain order. But behind this critical attitude lies a sincere desire to help and contribute in tangible ways. Virgo finds satisfaction in small gestures and in caring for daily life with attention.
- Element: Earth
- Modality: Mutable
- Ruling Planet: Mercury
Libra (September 23 – October 22)
Libra is the sign that seeks balance, harmony, and connection with others. People born under this energy tend to be diplomatic, sociable, and sensitive to aesthetics. They have a strong need for justice and enjoy environments where peace prevails. They value relationships, dialogue, and bonds grounded in respect and reciprocity.
Although they may hesitate before making decisions, their intention is always to find a fair and considerate option. Libra has a great ability to see all sides of a situation, making them a natural mediator. Moreover, their taste for beauty and art is often reflected in how they dress, speak, or decorate their surroundings.
- Element: Air
- Modality: Cardinal
- Ruling Planet: Venus
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
Scorpio represents transformation, emotional intensity, and psychological depth. Scorpionic people are known for their penetrating gaze, reserved energy, and strong powers of observation. They are not interested in superficial matters: they want to understand what lies beneath everything, even if that means going through crises or intense emotions.
This sign possesses tremendous inner strength and a very marked willpower. They can be very protective of those they love, but also tend to be distrustful if they feel something threatens their emotional world. Their transformative power allows them to be reborn several times throughout life, leaving behind what no longer serves them.
- Element: Water
- Modality: Fixed
- Ruling Planet: Pluto (traditionally also Mars)
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
Sagittarius is the sign of expansion, knowledge, and the search for meaning. Sagittarian individuals tend to be optimistic, adventurous, and have a great need for freedom. They are passionate about exploring new ideas, traveling, learning, and sharing what they discover with others. They have a broad perspective and often view life as a continuous growth experience.
Although they may sometimes seem impulsive or exaggerated, their enthusiasm is contagious and their desire for self-improvement is genuine. Sagittarius seeks to understand the world from a broader, philosophical, or spiritual lens. Their energy invites us to break routines and open our minds to new possibilities.
- Element: Fire
- Modality: Mutable
- Ruling Planet: Jupiter
Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)
Capricorn is the sign of responsibility, discipline, and long-term building. Capricornian individuals tend to be practical, organized, and goal-oriented. They have a great capacity for working consistently and overcoming obstacles, as they value effort as the path to success. Their sense of duty drives them to make decisions with maturity and future vision.
Although they may seem serious or reserved, they are loyal people who take care of what they build with patience. They are not interested in immediate results, but in creating lasting structures, both professionally and personally. When they manage to balance their ambition with emotional connection, they become figures of great stability for those around them.
- Element: Earth
- Modality: Cardinal
- Ruling Planet: Saturn
Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)
Aquarius is the sign of innovation, original ideas, and forward-thinking. Aquarian people tend to be independent, creative, and strongly oriented toward collective well-being. They are interested in what can improve society and are not afraid to question the status quo. Their way of thinking is often different, which makes them agents of change.
Although they value personal freedom above all, they are deeply loyal to their ideals and causes. Their energy seeks to break molds and promote a broader, more open and inclusive awareness. When they connect with purposeful groups or projects, they shine with their ability to think outside the box.
- Element: Air
- Modality: Fixed
- Ruling Planet: Uranus (traditionally also Saturn)
Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
Pisces is the sign most connected to the emotional, spiritual, and imaginative world. Pisceans are often sensitive, empathetic, and with a great capacity to dream. They have an intuitive nature that allows them to perceive what is not always said in words, and they tend to feel both their own emotions and those of others deeply. This emotional connection may lead them to express themselves through art, music, or service to others.
Sometimes they can feel overwhelmed by their surroundings, as they easily absorb the energy around them. However, when they learn to care for their boundaries, they become compassionate beings with a strong sense of universal connection. Pisces is a bridge between the visible and the invisible, and their energy reminds us of the importance of empathy and faith.
- Element: Water
- Modality: Mutable
- Ruling Planet: Neptune (traditionally also Jupiter)
Elements That Influence Each Zodiac Sign’s Personality
Each zodiac sign is influenced by different astrological factors that determine how its energy manifests. These elements not only define aspects of personality, but also the way each sign reacts to challenges, relates to others, and makes decisions. The three most important factors are: the ruling planet, the zodiac element, and the modality. Together, they create a more complete and accurate profile that goes beyond the sun sign.
The Ruling Planet: The Energy That Guides Each Sign
The ruling planet is the celestial body that most strongly influences each sign, giving it a particular way of expressing and moving in the world. Its energy sets the general tone of the sign and relates to its main motivations.
- Sun (Leo): Represents vitality, identity, and the need to shine. It gives Leo a strong and confident presence, focused on recognition and creativity.
- Moon (Cancer): Associated with emotions, home, and memories. It gives Cancer special sensitivity and a strong ability to care for others.
- Mercury (Gemini and Virgo): Governs the mind, communication, and analysis. It brings Gemini mental quickness and Virgo attention to detail and practicality.
- Venus (Taurus and Libra): Relates to love, pleasure, and beauty. It gives Taurus a strong sensory connection and Libra a search for harmony in relationships.
- Mars (Aries and Scorpio, traditional): Symbolizes action, desire, and strength. Aries gets from Mars its drive to act, and Scorpio its emotional and strategic intensity.
- Jupiter (Sagittarius and Pisces, traditional): Associated with expansion, learning, and faith. It gives Sagittarius their enthusiasm for exploring and Pisces their spiritual connection.
- Saturn (Capricorn and Aquarius, traditional): Represents structure, time, and discipline. Capricorn receives from Saturn its sense of responsibility, and Aquarius its realistic collective vision.
- Uranus (Aquarius): Linked to the unexpected, innovation, and change. It gives Aquarius their originality and their urge to break with the established.
- Neptune (Pisces): Symbolizes dreams, intuition, and fusion with the intangible. Pisces receives from Neptune their artistic sensitivity and connection to the unconscious.
- Pluto (Scorpio): Associated with transformation, power, and intensity. It gives Scorpio their emotional depth and ability to be reborn from within.
The Zodiac Element: Fire, Earth, Air, and Water
Signs are grouped into four elements that represent different ways of experiencing life. Each influences how we think, feel, and act.
- Fire (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius): Active, enthusiastic, and spontaneous energy. Fire signs tend to act with passion and constantly seek inspiration.
- Earth (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn): Practical, stable, and realistic energy. Earth signs value the concrete and focus on building with strength.
- Air (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius): Mental, communicative, and social energy. Air signs are oriented toward exchanging ideas and connecting with others.
- Water (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces): Emotional, intuitive, and sensitive energy. Water signs perceive the world through emotion and inner depth.
The Modality: Cardinal, Fixed, and Mutable
Modality describes how each sign’s energy moves and expresses itself—that is, its style of action in life. There are three modalities: cardinal, fixed, and mutable. Each includes four signs and reflects a different way of initiating, sustaining, or adapting to change. Knowing a sign’s modality helps understand its natural rhythm and how it faces processes.
- Cardinal (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn): These signs initiate cycles, mark beginnings, and take the lead. Their energy is proactive and oriented toward launching new projects.
- Fixed (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius): Represent stability, the strength to sustain and deepen. They resist change, but are constant, reliable, and firm in their decisions.
- Mutable (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces): Easily adapt to new things, transform, and adjust. Their energy flows with change, making them versatile and open.
Positive And Negative Polarity: The Direction Of Energy
Polarity indicates whether a sign’s energy is expressed outward (positive) or inward (negative). This isn’t about “good” or “bad” energy, but rather a natural tendency in how each sign acts or reacts. This classification alternates between signs and helps understand their basic orientation toward the world.
- Positive (Aries, Gemini, Leo, Libra, Sagittarius, Aquarius): These signs are active, extroverted, and outward-focused. They tend to express themselves spontaneously and seek constant interaction.
- Negative (Taurus, Cancer, Virgo, Scorpio, Capricorn, Pisces): More introspective, receptive, and reserved. They prefer to observe, feel, and process before acting.
