According to ancient wisdom, that which is within corresponds to that which is without and vice versa. The microcosm/macrocosm theory postulates the idea that, whatever happens on any level of reality whether physical, emotional or mental, happens on every other level as well. This means that contemplation and self-awareness will not only give us more understanding of ourselves, it’ll help us to better understand the rest of the world, too. That’s why so many wise people throughout the ages have issued the same counsel:

Know thyself.