Beat the Sunday Scaries | 12 Proven Stoic Strategies For Stress Relief

In this book, Donald J. Robertson combines the life of Marcus Aurelius with insights from modern psychology and the enduring wisdom of Stoic philosophy. The book follows Marcus Aurelius' journey from a young noble to his reign as emperor of Rome, highlighting how he used philosophical doctrines and therapeutic practices to build emotional resilience and endure adversity. Robertson guides readers on how to apply these same methods to their own lives, making Stoicism accessible and relevant in a modern context.

This book, which began as a speech given by Austin Kleon to college students, expands into a manifesto for creativity. It outlines ten transformative principles such as 'Steal like an artist' (honoring, studying, and transforming ideas), 'Don’t wait until you know who you are to start making things,' and 'Use your hands' (emphasizing physical work). Kleon argues that creativity is not original but builds on what came before, and he provides practical tips and inspiring concepts for artists, writers, musicians, and anyone generating creative work.

Winston Churchill's "Painting as a Pastime" is a reflection on the joys and benefits of painting as a hobby. Written during a period of intense political pressure, the book reveals Churchill's personal approach to art and its therapeutic value. He emphasizes the importance of finding creative outlets for stress relief and self-expression. The book offers insights into Churchill's artistic process and his philosophy on life. It serves as a testament to the power of creative pursuits in maintaining mental and emotional well-being.

Meditations is a series of private writings composed by Marcus Aurelius, one of Rome's greatest emperors, as he struggled to understand himself and make sense of the universe. Written between 170 and 180 CE while on military campaigns, this work combines Stoic philosophy with personal observations on leadership, duty, mortality, and human nature. Through twelve books of intimate thoughts never intended for publication, Marcus Aurelius explores themes of self-improvement, resilience in the face of adversity, and living virtuously while accepting what cannot be changed.

Montaigne's *Essays* are a seminal work that introduced the essay as a literary form. The book is a personal and introspective exploration of various subjects, including the human condition, skepticism, and the importance of concrete experience over abstract learning. Montaigne's skepticism is reflected in the title *Essais*, meaning 'Attempts' or 'Tests', indicating a project of trial and error and tentative exploration. The essays cover topics such as the education of children, the role of the body, illness, aging, and death. Montaigne's writing style is characterized by multiple digressions, anecdotes from ancient and contemporary sources, and quotations that reinforce his critical analysis of reality.

Plutarch's 'On Tranquility of Mind' is a philosophical essay exploring the nature of inner peace and how to achieve it. The work draws on Stoic principles, emphasizing the importance of self-control, acceptance of fate, and living in accordance with nature. Plutarch's writing style is characterized by its clarity, its practicality, and its insightful observations on human nature. The essay offers practical advice on how to cultivate inner peace and overcome adversity. 'On Tranquility of Mind' remains a valuable resource for understanding Stoic philosophy and its application to daily life.

In 'Stillness is the Key', Ryan Holiday explores the concept of inner stillness as a universal principle across different philosophical and religious traditions, including Stoicism, Buddhism, Epicureanism, and more. The book is divided into three sections: stillness of the mind, stillness of the spirit, and stillness of the body. Holiday argues that cultivating stillness allows for better decision-making, increased focus, and a more fulfilling life. He uses anecdotes from historical figures and contemporary examples to illustrate the importance of moderation, patience, and self-awareness in achieving this state of stillness.

In 'Shook One', Charlamagne Tha God shares his experiences with anxiety, detailing how he has faced and overcome these challenges throughout his life. The book offers a blueprint for breaking free from fears and anxieties, emphasizing the importance of therapy and mental health awareness. Charlamagne aims to remove the stigma associated with seeking help, especially within the Black community.