René Descartes, the father of modern philosophy who established the starting point of modern philosophy with the proposition “I think, therefore I am” and founded analytic geometry. Did you know that this giant of intellect maintained a very cozy yet unique routine every morning? 🛏️
Descartes was very weak since childhood, so it was very difficult for him to get up early in the morning. Fortunately, the principal of the royal school he attended specially allowed him to think in bed late in the morning. This habit continued throughout his life, even after he became an adult and volunteered for the army. He did not get out of bed until noon every day, lying comfortably to think, read, and write. He firmly believed that only when the body was completely lying down and relaxed could the mind operate most creatively and transparently without being disturbed by physical fatigue.
Today, BuildSelf introduces the scientific basis of Descartes’ ‘bed thinking’ meditation routine and how busy modern people can use it in the morning.
Historical & Academic Evidence
This content is based on René Descartes' Biography 'La Vie de Monsieur Descartes' & Psychophysiology Journal.
1. 5 Minutes of Lying in the Morning Determines the Stability of the Day
Many modern people get up in a hurry when they hear the alarm, their hearts beating, check emails or messages on their phones, and start the day. This induces cortisol and adrenaline secretion from the start of the day, raising the arousal level excessively and making them feel rushed and chronically fatigued throughout the day.
On the other hand, maintaining a horizontal, comfortable lying posture for a while immediately after waking up like Descartes moderately activates the parasympathetic nervous system, helping the brain wake up gently. In this state, the ‘Alpha wave’, a brainwave that helps manifest high creativity and intuition, is harmoniously released. This brief morning lying meditation time firmly holds the cognitive function and emotional resilience of the entire day.
2. 3-Step Practical Routine for Modern Professionals
Maintain Posture and Block Smartphones Immediately After Alarm
Relaxing Breathing and Body Scan
Setting Today's 'Core Question'
3. A Brain-Scientific Word for a Successful Routine
For Descartes, the bed was never a symbol of laziness. Rather, it was the quietest and most perfect time and space for his brain to escape the trivial noise of reality and clearly draw the essence of the universe called mathematics and philosophy. Even for just 5 minutes a day, give your brain a true chance to relax in bed when you open your eyes.
📌 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is morning meditation in bed really effective for the brain? ▼
Yes, a horizontal posture right after waking guides brainwaves into an alpha state, stabilizing the autonomic nervous system and boosting creativity and emotional stability.
