By indulging in the experience of being alone, we can be inspired to find our own rewards and ultimately lead richer, fuller lives.

Our fast-paced society does not approve of solitude; being alone is so often considered anti-social and some even find it sinister. Why is this so when autonomy, personal freedom and individualism are more highly prized than ever before? Sara Maitland answers this question in How to Be Alone by exploring changing attitudes throughout history. Offering experiments and strategies for overturning our fear of solitude, she helps us to practise it without anxiety and encourages us to see the benefits of spending time by ourselves.

The School of Life looks at new ways of thinking about life's biggest questions. Discover more fascinating books from the series with How to Stay Sane and How to Think More About Sex.