Overview
Practicing the philosophical life.
Over the last few weeks, we've learned from various philosophers about what it means to live the "philosophical" life. A central theme in all of these works is moderation, which is achieved through various practices. Sometimes, the philosopher recommends forms of abstinence (Plotinus), some recommend meditation (Aurelius), and others recommend taking a new perspective on things that make you angry (Seneca).
To complete this discussion you must first attempt to apply one of these practices for 5 days. You can either
1) Abstain from something you enjoy (Netflix, Social Media, your favorite food, etc.)
2) Spend one hour a day meditating like Marcus Aurelius (Remember this form of meditation is different than the relaxing type one finds in yoga. Instead you want to spend an hour thinking about how you can live a happier life. What things are standing in your way? What can you do to change your own attitudes? Are you living in harmony with the universe or are you fighting against it? Are you performing your service to others and society well?)
3) Identify the thing in life that makes you angry. Try to change your perspective so that thing no longer makes you angry. (For example, expect traffic to be bad and plan to make a long commute enjoyable)
After you've attempted to complete one of these tasks for 5 days, submit an essay that is at least 350 words and create a video response of your experience. Tell me how it went. Was it hard or easy? Was it a helpful exercise? Would you do it again? Is there a way to make these kinds of practices part of everyday life? etc. If you don't want your face on the video. Film a contemplative location and just talk over the video. If you don't want to talk maybe figure out how to add text to your video.