Stoicism · The Stoic Way, part 12 of 20 · 4 October 2026 · Charlotte Himsworth
The Stoic Way with Feelings
Not suppression, but wise attention.
One of the greatest misunderstandings about Stoicism is that it asks us to feel nothing. The ancient Stoics were far more humane than that.
First movements
Seneca described what later writers called first movements: the jolt of fear at a sudden noise, the flush of anger at an insult, the tears that rise unbidden. These are natural and involuntary. Even the wisest person feels them. They are not failures.
What we do next
What matters, for the Stoics, is what happens next. Do we feed the first movement with a story until it becomes rage, panic or despair? Or do we pause, breathe, and look at what is really happening?
Good feelings
The Stoics also spoke of good emotions that come from wisdom: a steady, quiet joy; a healthy caution that keeps us safe; and goodwill, wishing well for ourselves and others. Stoicism is not cold. Its aim is a deeper, more lasting warmth.
Grief
Seneca wrote letters of comfort to people in mourning. He did not tell them not to grieve. He encouraged them to grieve honestly, and then, in time, to remember their loved ones with gratitude rather than only pain.
A simple practice
When a strong feeling arrives, name it gently: “This is fear,” or “This is sadness.” Take three slow breaths before acting. Let the feeling be there, without letting it decide for you.
If you are struggling with despair, you deserve real support, not only philosophy. Please speak to your GP, or call Samaritans on 116 123, any time, day or night.