The benefiits of Solitude

In Papua New Guinea (PNG) context, the concepts of solitude and loneliness carry very different meanings because of the deeply relational, communal, and wantok-based nature of Melanesian culture.

PNG society (with over 800+ languages and 1000+ cultural groups) is built around strong connections — family, clan, tribe, language group, and place.

Being truly "alone" in the traditional or village sense is rare and often unnatural.

Solitude in PNG Context:

Solitude is usually seen as positive, temporary, purposeful, or even necessary at times.

Examples of how solitude appears and is understood:

A man going alone into the bush to hunt, check sago palms, or clear garden — this is normal and respected.

Someone walking to a garden plot or fishing spot by themselves for a few hours.

Certain rituals or spiritual moments (e.g., some initiation processes or personal reflection in nature).

In many areas, especially in the past, geographical isolation between hamlets or clans was normal — people could be physically alone for periods without it being a problem.

In this sense, solitude is often peaceful or productive — a person is still strongly connected to their land, ancestors, spirits, and community even when physically alone. They are not cut off from their identity and belonging.

Loneliness in PNG Context:

Loneliness is much more painful and unnatural — it is the feeling of being disconnected, rejected, or cut off from your social world (wantok, family, clan, place).

This is considered serious because in Melanesian worldview:

Your identity and safety come from relationships (wantok system — "one talk", same language/group/kin).

Being without support network = vulnerability (no one to share food, defend you, help in times of need, or bury you properly when you die).

Urban migrants in Port Moresby, Lae, or other towns often feel intense loneliness when they are far from village wantoks, especially if they don't find new "wantok" connections (same province/language group).

Plantation workers, students in cities, or people in settlement areas sometimes describe deep loneliness as "no freedom, no kin".

In traditional village life, true loneliness was/is very rare — people are always surrounded by relatives, even in crowded houses with little physical privacy. But social disconnection (being shunned, losing wantok support, or being cut off from land/ancestors) is one of the worst things that can happen.

In short:

In PNG, you can be physically alone and still feel whole (solitude) because your belonging is strong.

But when you feel socially and emotionally cut off from your people — that's loneliness, and it hurts deeply because Melanesian life is fundamentally about togetherness.

That's why many Papua New Guineans in towns quickly look for wantok to reduce loneliness — one talk, one group, one connection can make the difference between feeling lost or feeling at home.

Let's look at the Benefits of solitude.

The benefits of solitude:

Being alone — true chosen solitude, not unwanted loneliness — is one of the most underrated superpowers for mental and emotional health. In a world that constantly pushes connection, taking intentional time for yourself can feel rebellious... and incredibly rewarding.

Here are some of the most well-supported benefits of spending quality time alone.

1. Stress Reduction & Emotional Reset:

Time alone often acts like a natural stress-reliever. Studies show that chosen solitude lowers stress levels, helps regulate strong emotions (like anger or anxiety), and leaves you feeling calmer and more peaceful.

2. Boosted and Creativity  Moments:

When the noise of others disappears, your mind gets space to wander freely. Many breakthroughs, artistic ideas, and problem-solving solutions happen in solitude — researchers have found people experience more creative insights when alone and relaxed.

3. Deeper Self-Awareness & Personal Growth:

Solitude gives you room to hear your own thoughts without external influence. This builds:

Better understanding of your values, desires, and boundaries

Greater emotional intelligence

Stronger sense of identity and independence

Journaling or quiet reflection is a classic way many people use this time:

Regular solitude makes you better at relationships. By replenishing your energy and emotional resources alone, you return to people more present, empathetic, and generous — rather than drained and reactive.

5. Greater Autonomy & Freedom:

Days with more intentional alone time often leave people feeling:

More authentic

Freer to be themselves

In control of their choices.

Bottom line: Solitude isn't the opposite of connection — it's the foundation that makes good connection possible. The key difference is intention — choosing to be alone (even for 15–30 minutes a day) versus feeling forced into isolation.

How have you been spending your solitude? Tell us about it.

With Love

Myrosesdiary.