Ataraxy

About Ataraxy

“Ataraxy” is based on the Greek “ἀταραξία,” meaning “impassiveness” or “lack of disturbance.” It entered English from the French “ataraxie” in the early 1600s.

Did you Know?

“Ataraxy” is sometimes used as a synonym for “deep relaxation” or “serenity.” However, the idea was developed by Stoic philosophers in ancient Greece who used “ataraxy” to describe a state of emotional balance that resulted from living in harmony with nature. The Stoics also thought ataraxy could be achieved by abandoning passions in favor of reason. While today ataraxy might be associated with a pleasant evening at home, Stoics encouraged soldiers entering battle to cultivate ataraxy, since mental stillness would help protect them in combat.