What is "omphaloskepsis"

1925, from omphalo- + Greek -skepsis, from skeptesthai "to reflect, look, view" (see scope (n.1)). Also omphaloscopy (1931), and used in the sense of "navel-gazer" were omphalopsychic (1892), omphalopsychite (1882).

n. 1 contemplate of or meditate upon one's navel; navel-gazing. 2 (context figuratively English) ratiocination to the point of self-absorption

n. contemplation of one's navel

Omphaloskepsis or navel-gazing is contemplation of one's navel as an aid to meditation.

The word comes from Greek omphalos (navel) + skepsis (act of looking, examination).

Actual use of the practice as an aid to contemplation of basic principles of the cosmos and human nature is found in the practice of yoga of Hinduism and sometimes in the Eastern Orthodox Church. Some consider the navel to be "a powerful chakra of the body".

However, phrases such as "contemplating one's navel" or "navel-gazing" are frequently used, usually in jocular fashion, to refer to self-absorbed pursuits.