Do Monks and Nuns Know How to Chill?

Monk Mindset for Living Well

Monk Mindset 4

Refresh without Indulging: Personal Wellness

Reflection on the Monk Mindset & Quote

As a Carmelite nun in the 1500s, St. Teresa of Avila lived an extremely disciplined and penitential life. But she also recognized there was a time for “partridge” – a feasting delicacy of the time. 

Having some relief from penances and ascetical practices is core to the monastic life. 

When I was in the monastery, Sundays were a day of rest and doing things that refreshed us. I’d often go on long walks or runs these days to enjoy the outdoors as much as possible. Then, I’d call my parents and leisurely catch up with them. Before dinner, with the other brothers, I enjoyed “gaudeamus” (meaning “we rejoice”), where we’d have a glass of wine and visit in a relaxed setting. 

It’s often simple, little things that can refresh us the most.

Having “partridge” means that because you work hard and go deeper in discipline most of the time, you occasionally allow yourself to celebrate and refresh without indulging. 

So, yes, monks and nuns know how to ‘chill’ from time to time. :)

Put It Into Practice This Week

What’s one thing you’ll do this week that gives you life to refresh, without indulging?

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