Achieving tranquility according to Epicurus

 What of having a fearless and worriless life? Very nice isn't it? One of the factors that can make live happily according to Epicurus is Tranquility. 

According to Epicurus, tranquility — what he called ataraxia — is the ultimate goal. Here's how he said you can achieve it:

1. Eliminate unnecessary desires.
   Most mental disturbance comes from wanting things you don't need. Stick to natural, necessary desires (like food, shelter, friendship) and ignore the rest (fame, luxury, status).

2. Understand pleasure and pain.
   Epicurus believed that wise choices maximize long-term pleasure (peace) and minimize pain. He said to choose short-term discomfort if it leads to greater peace later.

3. Do not fear death.
   Fear of death creates huge anxiety. Epicurus taught that death is simply the end of experience — there's no pain after death, so there's nothing to fear.

4. Ignore the gods.
   Don’t waste energy worrying about divine punishment. The gods, if they exist, are blissful and detached, not meddling in human lives.

5. Value simple friendships.
   Deep, loyal friendships create stability and joy. They are essential for a tranquil life.

6. Live modestly and wisely.
   A simple life, guided by rational thought and free of superstitious fears, leads directly to tranquility.

Epicurus’ basic formula:

"Nothing to fear in life, nothing to fear in death; enjoy simple pleasures with wise friends."


Causes of anxiety 

Here’s a straight-to-the-point list of the top 10 causes of anxiety:

1. Chronic stress.
   Ongoing pressure from work, relationships, money, or health wears you down.

2. Trauma.
   Past abuse, violence, accidents, or sudden loss can trigger long-term anxiety.

3. Health issues.
   Chronic illnesses, hormonal imbalances, or even vitamin deficiencies can cause anxiety.

4. Substance use.
   Caffeine, alcohol, drugs, and even some medications can fuel anxious feelings.

5. Overthinking.
   Constant rumination — replaying the past or worrying about the future — feeds anxiety.

6. Lack of control.
   Feeling powerless over important areas of your life creates deep unease.

7. Poor sleep.
   Sleep deprivation scrambles your brain’s ability to regulate fear and stress.

8. Negative thinking patterns.
   Habitually expecting the worst ("catastrophizing") keeps your nervous system on edge.

9. Social pressure.
   Fear of judgment, rejection, or failure in social situations can spike anxiety.

10. Genetics and brain chemistry.
    Some people are biologically more prone to anxiety — it's wired into how their brain processes stress.

 Related:

How do stress affect life