'self-contemplation' originates from the Latin word 'contemplatio,' where 'con-' meant 'with' and 'templum' meant 'temple or sacred space.'

'contemplatio' transformed into the Old French word 'contemplation,' and eventually became the modern English word 'contemplation' with the prefix 'self-' added to denote personal reflection.

Initially, it meant 'the act of looking at or viewing,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'reflecting on one's own thoughts and feelings.'