The Stoic Handbook by Jon Brooks

The 3 Limits of Modern Stoicism

Nov 10, 2023

The podcast explores the three limits of modern Stoicism: trauma healing, mindfulness, and ecstatic experiences. It discusses the potential limitations of modern Stoicism and suggests methods to overcome them. The importance of mindfulness and concentration in Stoicism is emphasized, along with the need to embrace ecstatic experiences. Various practices are suggested to connect with the body and enhance stoic practice.

12:24

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Quick takeaways

Trauma healing may not be sufficiently addressed in modern Stoicism, requiring additional therapeutic interventions like expressive writing or trauma-specific therapies.

Modern Stoicism may overlook the importance of mindfulness, which was emphasized more in ancient times, and combining stoic philosophy with mindfulness can be powerful.

Deep dives

The Influence of Chemical Milieu on Cognitive Abilities

The neural networks in our nervous systems are influenced by fluctuating chemical levels, impacting cognitive abilities. For example, alcohol impairs the rational brain and allows more primitive aspects to dominate behavior. The surge of hormones during childbirth can induce overwhelming feelings of love. Despite this, it is fascinating that the complex network of neurons can generate conscious thought. Stoics use techniques to strengthen the rational mind's control over other brain components, but when cognitive abilities are diminished, stoic methods may be less effective. In such cases, medical or therapeutic intervention may be necessary, such as cognitive behavioral therapy.

Introduction

2min

The Limits of Modern Stoicism

2min

The Limits of Modern Stoicism: Mindfulness and Concentration

2min

Combining Mindfulness and Stoic Philosophy, Embracing Ecstasy

3min

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💥 This episode is sponsored by Podia. This is the platform I use to host all of my Stoic courses and premium offerings. I highly recommend it, and you can create a free account with this link:

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In this lesson, I explore the three limits of modern Stoicism: trauma healing, mindfulness, and ecstatic experiences. In ancient times, they likely had methods of working through these important areas. But modern Stoicism puts a big emphasis on resilience and "coping" with hardship and can inadvertently worship rationality over wisdom, which is not the point.

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