Eremitism refers to the act of withdrawing oneself from society and living in isolation or solitude, often for religious or spiritual reasons. Synonyms for this term include asceticism, reclusion, seclusion, hermitage, anchoretism, and solitude. Asceticism refers to strict self-discipline and self-denial, often in the pursuit of spiritual or philosophical goals. Reclusion and seclusion both connote voluntary isolation from society. Hermitage is similar to eremitism in describing the dwelling or habitat of a hermit. Anchoretism denotes the act of living in solitude as a religious or spiritual practice. Solitude simply describes being alone and away from others. All of these terms describe different aspects of the practice of living in isolation for spiritual contemplation or other reasons.