The practice of “mindful minimalism” and the ability to live in the “here and now” moment is a priority of this Mediterranean wisdom.
21st Century Greek Philosophy: The Key to Longevity
Travelers bring back many treasures from their journeys to Greece. And this isn’t just about a perfect tan or social media photos. The most important thing is the valuable life lesson that everyone receives who immerses themselves in the atmosphere of the Ionian Islands and observes the daily lives of local residents. This philosophy explains the Greeks’ very attitude towards existence and is the ideal antidote to the rush, stress, and chronic obsession with “getting everything done” typical of big-city dwellers.
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This is also one of the main secrets to remarkable longevity. For example, on Ikaria (a Greek island that is one of the world’s five “blue zones”), over 30% of residents live to be 90 years old in excellent health. At the core of this phenomenon lies a Stoic-Epicurean approach to emotional control, acceptance of the flow of time, and the ability to savor the simplest things.
“Siga-Siga”: The Art of Slowing Down and Valuing the Moment
This philosophy is encapsulated in a phrase heard at every turn on the islands – “siga-siga” (σιγά-σιγά), which literally translates to “slowly-slowly” or “step by step.” In the culture of the Greek islands, haste is perceived almost as disrespect. This unique perception of time is linked to the ancient Greek concept of kairos – a term meaning “timeliness,” “the opportune moment,” that is, time lived in the present, as opposed to chronos – time measured by the hands of a clock.
In this context, live conversation, pleasant company, and the satisfaction of doing any task without fuss are truly important. Trying to speed up the pace or mundane gestures like constantly checking the watch can be interpreted as disrespect to the interlocutor. Calm enjoyment of the “here and now” moment is the only true priority.
Returning to the Present to Find Yourself
Of course, in the frantic rhythm of a metropolis, it’s not always easy to replicate the routine of those who are fortunate enough to wake up by the coast of Katapola or Pylos each morning. However, there are simple steps that can help everyone live a little slower.
To achieve this state, the expert recommends auditing your daily life:
- Analyze priorities: what is truly important?
- Take a digital detox: which phone apps and notifications consume your attention daily?
- Assess your schedule: what fills your diary and, most importantly, how much quality time is dedicated to people who are truly significant?
It’s worth asking yourself: what are my real aspirations? Without the influence of hundreds of motivational videos, productivity tips, speeches about success, and criticism about “ideal relationships,” “ideal body,” or “dream career” – what would my own inner dialogue be? What distracting factors appear along the way? What barriers prevent me from being present in what is already valuable in life? What takes up space without bringing any meaning?”
Psychologists assure that if you honestly answer these questions and start acting accordingly, it will be a decisive step towards living longer, better, and enjoying every step of the journey, not just the thought of the finish line.
Based on material from: Vogue.es