Luminous Ithaka #18
The Wisdom in the Pause — Why Stillness Isn’t Wasted Time
A Thought to Begin With
“Within you, there is a stillness and a sanctuary
to which you can retreat at any time.”
Hermann Hesse
I had two days off this week, and I realized I couldn’t truly relax. My mind was filled with tasks to catch up on, plans to make, and ideas to chase. But in that space, I noticed how often we rush to fix, plan, or act—even when it’s not necessary.
There’s this constant pressure to always be doing something, and sometimes, it’s hard to simply... be.
But some of the most meaningful shifts I’ve experienced didn’t come from doing. They came from pausing. From allowing myself to just be.
Stillness is space. Sacred space. And it holds far more wisdom than we often give it credit for.
What if doing nothing isn’t laziness—but an invitation?
Something to Think About
When was the last time you gave yourself full permission to pause?
In what ways does stillness feel uncomfortable for you?
Could “not doing” be a form of deeper trust in life?
What kind of stillness nourishes you most—quiet nature, a slow morning, meditation, or simply watching the sky?
Let yourself sit with any of these. No pressure to solve anything—just notice.
Something Worth Reading
“The Deeper Benefits of Slowing Down”
This gentle essay by Andy Mort explores how slowing down can help us let go of the need for control. It’s about understanding that growth starts with roots that emerge from seeds planted in the dark. These are processes beneath and beyond our field of vision. Not an easy thing to do in a world that likes quick and visible results.
Something to Watch
Jenny Odell – How to do nothing
In this video, artist and author Jenny Odell discusses the importance of reclaiming our attention and the value of doing nothing in a world that constantly demands our focus. She explores how intentional disengagement can lead to deeper connection and understanding.
Something You Might Try
A Gentle Practice
Take ten minutes today to do… nothing.
Not meditating. Not planning. Just sitting. Breathing. Looking.
Let your mind wander. Let your body soften.
Let stillness be the teacher.
“Stillness Is the Key” by Ryan Holiday
For those who want to dive deeper, I recommend this book. A beautifully written book that weaves together ancient philosophy and modern wisdom to show how cultivating inner stillness leads to clarity, peace, and purpose. Drawing from the Stoics, Buddhists, and thinkers like Churchill and Marcus Aurelius, it’s a gentle nudge to slow down and reconnect with what matters.
“Stillness is what aims the archer’s arrow.
It inspires new ideas. It sharpens perspective. It illuminates connections.
Stillness is the key to brilliance, happiness, and virtue.”
Ryan Holiday
Let’s Stay Connected
→ Blog – quiet thoughts and longer pieces
→ Past Letters – revisit previous issues
→ My Notes – almost daily whispers
→ Shop – printable tools for reflection
🌿 Set the mood as you read: Create your own calming background sounds