Introspection, which is looking inside yourself, is important for our happiness. Several introspection techniques exist including meditation. 

Introspection comes from the Latin introspectus, which means “to look inside yourself”. This term designates the state in which we are attentive to what is happening inside ourselves (our feelings, our thoughts, who we are…) and the methods for looking inside ourselves.

In psychology, introspection is a method of observation and analysis of oneself with a view to studying one’s own person (introspective psychology) and to acquiring self-knowledge or with a view to knowing the human mind in general. .

For Paul Diel, introspection is “a natural and innate function whose purpose is to ensure the regulation of interior life”. Thus, “Know thyself” is a viral precept for the self-organization of psychic life. Introspection is therefore necessary for our happiness: knowing yourself allows you to know your needs, to learn to accept and love yourself as you are.

In addition, it contributes to our happiness because it helps us to live better with others. Indeed, being better connected to your emotions allows you to react better to others and to anticipate your reactions. Edgard Morin, French sociologist and philosopher, wrote: “The mental practice of permanent self-examination is necessary, because understanding our own weaknesses or lacks is the way to understanding those of others. If we discover that we are all fallible, fragile, insufficient, deficient beings, then we may find that we all have a mutual need for understanding. ”

There are many techniques of introspection. Meditation is one of these techniques. Meditation allows interiorization: it centers your attention inward, towards yourself; it allows awareness of things: you become the witness of your mental and emotional states. The technique of “Introspective Meditation” helps to achieve Self-knowledge through self-control and personal development.

You can practice this introspection exercise inspired by Tibetan Buddhism:

Start with relaxation. Once relaxed, become aware of the incessant flow of your thoughts, feelings and images related to desire. Just watch what’s going on in your mind. If you are distracted, focus on introspection. Remain aware of your precise thoughts and feelings.

You can reserve a period of introspection each day by meditating or in any case by taking time for yourself, alone (e): take a vain, enjoy a cup of tea, go for a walk alone (alone).