What is Askesis?
Askesis in Stoicism is the disciplined practice of training one’s mind and character toward virtue. The word describes the process through which Stoics strengthen their reasoning, control impulses, and align daily actions with nature. In modern life, askesis reminds us that wisdom and peace do not come from reading philosophy alone, but from living it, through deliberate effort and self-discipline.
Breaking Down the Word
Askēsis (ἄσκησις) comes from the Greek verb askeō, meaning “to exercise,” “to train,” or “to practice.”
- Literal meaning: physical or mental training.
- Philosophical meaning: a continuous exercise in moral and rational improvement.
In early Greek thought, askesis referred to athletic training, but the Stoics expanded it to moral and spiritual development. Just as athletes train their bodies for competition, Stoics train their minds for life itself. This daily practice refines judgment, strengthens self-control, and harmonizes inner intention with right action.
Key Dimensions of Askesis
- Moral Training – Askesis is the exercise of the soul toward virtue. Through small, repeated acts of justice, temperance, courage, and wisdom, one gradually builds moral strength.
- Mental Discipline – Stoics use exercises like premeditatio malorum (imagining potential misfortunes) and journaling to prepare the mind for life’s challenges.
- Habit Formation – The goal is not perfection but progress (prokopē). By forming habits of right reason, one becomes less reactive and more consistent.
- Embodied Philosophy – Askesis is not only contemplation but also action. Each choice and interaction becomes an opportunity to practice philosophy.
For more Stoic exercises, find out here: How to Practice Stoicism.
Core Stoic Principles Behind Askesis
- Virtue (aretē): Askesis is the road to virtue, the highest good in Stoicism.
- Reason (logos): Through practice, one learns to act according to reason rather than emotion.
- Nature (physis): By training ourselves to accept what happens as part of nature’s order, we find peace.
- Wisdom (sophia): Askesis transforms abstract understanding into lived wisdom.
Modern Misunderstandings
Askesis is often mistaken for asceticism, a life of denial or suffering. But Stoic askesis is not about punishing the body. It is about training the mind. Voluntary discomforts, for instance, are not self-denial but opportunities to strengthen freedom from external dependency. As Musonius Rufus wrote:
“We will train both soul and body when we accustom ourselves to cold, heat, thirst, hunger, scarcity of food, hardness of bed, abstaining from pleasures, and enduring pains. Through these methods and others like them, the body is strengthened, becomes inured to suffering, and strong and fit for every task; the soul is strengthened as it is trained for courage by enduring hardships and trained for self-control by abstaining from pleasures.”
Musonius Rufus, Lectures and Sayings, Lecture 6.4–5
Why Askesis Is Central to Stoicism
For the Stoics, philosophy without askesis is mere talk. Epictetus taught that philosophy is learned not from books but from living as one’s teachings prescribe. Askesis bridges the gap between knowledge and transformation; it is the active cultivation of moral excellence. Modern scholars describe it as “spiritual exercise,” a term that captures how Stoic training builds inner freedom and clarity.
Practical Ways to Practice Askesis Today
- Morning and Evening Reflection – Review your intentions at dawn and your actions at dusk. What did you do well? What could you improve tomorrow?
- Voluntary Discomfort – Occasionally practice going without comfort, like skipping a meal or walking in the cold, to build resilience.
- Pause Before Reaction – When emotions arise, pause. Ask, “Is this within my control?”
- Stoic Coaching or Community Practice – Engage with others pursuing Stoicism. Guidance accelerates growth and provides accountability.
For more resources, explore the Stoic coaching page or browse our Stoic quotes collection for daily reflection.
FAQ
What does askesis mean in Stoicism?
Askesis in Stoicism means the daily exercise of reason and virtue to align one’s thoughts and actions with nature.
Is askesis the same as asceticism?
No. Askesis is moral and mental training, not denial. It builds strength through moderation, not deprivation.
Can anyone develop askesis?
Yes. Like any skill, it grows through practice. Consistency is more important than intensity.
Conclusion
Askesis in Stoicism is the heart of philosophical living, the transformation of thought into habit, and knowledge into virtue. It shows us that wisdom is not inherited but trained. Begin with one small exercise each day, and the practice itself will reshape who you become.
Want to explore more about Stoicism?
Book a free consultation with one of our Stoic Coaches or learn about more Stoic philosophy terms. You can also listen to the Via Stoica podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts or watch it on YouTube.
Author Bio
Benny Voncken is the co-founder of Via Stoica, where he helps people apply Stoic philosophy to modern life. He is a Stoic coach, writer, and podcast host of The Via Stoica Podcast. With almost a decade of teaching experience and daily Stoic practice, Benny creates resources, workshops, and reflections that make ancient wisdom practical today.
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