The phrase “Know Thyself” is often attributed to Socrates, but its origins trace back even further to ancient Greece, specifically the Temple of Apollo at Delphi. Inscribed on the forecourt of the temple, the phrase served as a moral and philosophical directive for the visitors who sought guidance from the oracle. The Delphic maxim, “Know Thyself” encouraged individuals to engage in self-reflection and self-awareness, a task that might have been daunting for the average ancient Greek, distracted by Olympian gossip and the latest in toga fashion.
Socrates, the quintessential philosopher and lover of questions, adopted this aphorism and wove it into the fabric of his teachings. Socrates’ interpretation of “Know Thyself” was not about knowing one’s favourite wine or the best way to tie a chiton, but rather about understanding one’s own ignorance. Socratic wisdom lies in the awareness of one’s own lack of knowledge; an approach of annoying people into self-awareness, a form of intellectual humility.
Socrates’ unique approach to teaching was to ask probing questions, a method now known as the Socratic Method. This technique often led his conversation partners – or victims – to a realization of their own ignorance. Imagine a modern-day Socrates strolling into a coffee shop, engaging someone in a deep discussion about the ethical implications of their choice of a caramel macchiato, and leaving them questioning not only their coffee preferences but their entire worldview. A bit like modern-day coaching, in a way.
His relentless questioning was aimed at getting people to think critically about their beliefs, values, perspectives, judgments, and assumptions. It’s the philosophical equivalent of peeling an onion, layer by layer, until you’re left with nothing but tears and the uncomfortable realization that you really don’t know much about anything at all. This method can be as exhilarating as it is exasperating, particularly if you’re on the receiving end.
In today’s world, the phrase “Know Thyself” might seem quaint in the face of social media’s onslaught of selfies, status updates, and curated personas. Yet, the essence of the phrase is more relevant than ever. Knowing oneself in the age of Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter/X, and Threads means cutting through the noise of external validation and truly understanding what drives and fuels you – values, motivations, passions, judgments, and – yes – limitations.
This fairly modern quest for self-knowledge can be seen in the rise of mindfulness and meditation practices, therapy, and the ubiquitous self-help industry. Everyone from corporate executives to yoga enthusiasts is on a journey of self-discovery, armed with meditation apps, gratitude journals, and colour-coordinated outfits and yoga mats. The pursuit of self-knowledge has evolved from the dusty streets of Athens to the glossy pages of wellness magazines and the pixelated screens of wellness apps, from retreats in remote and secluded locations, to urban intensives in high-end spa retreats.
People will do anything, no matter how absurd, to avoid facing their own souls. – Carl Jung
Imagine if Socrates were alive today, navigating the complexities of modern life. Picture him at a tech conference, questioning the ethical implications of artificial intelligence with the same intensity he applied to discussions about justice and virtue. Or perhaps he’d be a guest on a popular podcast, leaving the host flustered and the audience in deep contemplation with his relentless questioning.
Socrates might even take to social media, not to post selfies, but to engage in thought-provoking dialogues. His Twitter/X feed would be a mix of incisive questions and witty observations, garnering a following of those hungry for intellectual stimulation. His YouTube channel would feature debates on the nature of truth and virtue, probably going viral for all the right reasons.
The phrase “Know Thyself” has endured through the ages because it speaks to a fundamental aspect of our human experience. Whether inscribed on an ancient temple or tattooed on a forearm, its message remains just as powerful and pertinent. Socrates’ embrace of this maxim underscores the importance of self-awareness and intellectual humility, virtues that are as essential today as they were in ancient Greece.
In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, taking the time to “Know Thyself” can be a radical act of self-care and empowerment. It’s a reminder that amidst the noise and distractions, the journey inward is where we truly discover our strengths, confront our weaknesses, and find our unique place in the world. So, the next time you’re scrolling through social media or pondering life’s big questions over a caramel macchiato, remember the wisdom of Socrates and take a moment to truly know yourself.
My friend, I am not what I seem. Seeming is but a garment I wear — a care-woven garment that protects me from thy questionings and thee from my negligence. The “I” in me, my friend, dwells in the house of silence, and therein it shall remain for ever more, unperceived, unapproachable. – Kahlil Gibran
And now, the missing piece.
All the above is written with the focus on “Thyself,” which is what continues to be the main pursuit for so many. Who is that “Self?” Where do I find it/her/him? Whose voice is speaking now? Who is driving your bus? Who is thinking the thought in this moment? On and on and on. And then, on some more.
What will happen if we shift our focus to the “Know” part? How do we know? Like, really! For the most part, everything written above has been focused on intellectual/cognitive knowing, with the occasional dip into the realm of the heart and emotions. In reality, we misinterpret the word know. We assume, and understandably so, that “knowing” has to do with the head, with cognitive sense-making and intellectual understanding. The truth is, though, that this is in fact the least important bit.
We need to orient ourselves to “knowing” as a more holistic phenomenon. The level of “knowing” we need when it comes to ourselves: an intimate, experiential, somatic knowledge. When we open this door, things really start happening. Thus, welcome to Somatic Knowing – the Intelligence of the Body.
It takes something more than intelligence to act intelligently. – Fyodor Dostoyevsky
Somatic Knowing (embodied cognition, embodied self-awareness, body intelligence), is a form of understanding and learning that arises from the body’s physical experience rather than through abstract or intellectual thought. This type of knowing is rooted in the idea that our bodies are not merely vessels for our minds but are active participants in the process of learning and knowing. It encompasses the knowledge gained through bodily sensations, movements, and emotions, highlighting the interconnectedness of body and mind.
This concept challenges traditional views that prioritize rational and cognitive processes over physical experience, proposing instead that the body has its own ways of processing information and making sense of the world. For instance, athletes often rely on muscle memory and the physical sensation of movement to perform complex tasks. Dancers and actors use their bodies to express emotions and tell stories, drawing on a deep, embodied understanding that goes beyond words. This physical intelligence is not just about motor skills but also involves a deep sensitivity to the body’s internal signals, such as intuition and gut feelings. Somatic knowing is increasingly recognized in various fields, including education, therapy, coaching, and leadership, among others.
Somatic inquiry starts with being willing to be present with what we sense and feel without an internalized narrative. There is intelligence in our all of our experiences. We can transform unconscious beliefs towards wisdom in action, when we release old stories and live in alignment with our mind, heart, and body.
Embracing somatic knowing invites a holistic approach to understanding our individual and collective human experience. It encourages us to listen to our bodies, recognizing that our physical experiences provide valuable insights and wisdom. By integrating somatic awareness into our daily lives, we can achieve a more balanced and enriched way of knowing, one that honours the full spectrum of human intelligence.