Peace to you!

After attending Oxford and Harvard and working in investment banking, I had a spiritual experience that led me to leave the path of success to live in monasteries for over 7 years.

Through this newsletter, I share practical wisdom from my experience in the monastery. I hope it’s fruitful for your journey!

Each week, the Monk Mindset newsletter comes with:

Monk Mindset for Living Well

Monk Mindset 4
Refresh without Indulging: Personal Wellness

Reflection on the Monk Mindset and Quote

When I was in the monastery, I was surprised how much emphasis was put on regular exercise. As a runner, I thought I might have to give up this activity, but instead I was encouraged to exercise daily. 

St. Hildegard of Bingen, a nun, medical practitioner, scientist, and abbess from the 12th century, experimented with herbs, exercise, diet for holistic health. 

This quote may seem a little dated today but it shows she was centuries ahead of her time for wellness practices. It’s a great illustration how monks and nuns, in their pursuit of holistic health, understand that the body must be cared for in an appropriate way.

Monks and nuns understand that the body and soul are intertwined. What happens in our body impacts our soul and visa versa. Just as extreme stress or depression can impact the body, so too the state of the body will impact our spiritual health. 

Regular exercise – at least 3-4 times per week and ideally every day, helps to keep the harmony between the body and soul intact.  

Put It Into Practice This Week

What form of exercise or personal wellness restores you?

If you’re not currently doing this, can you commit to doing it at least once this week?

Wishing you abundant peace this week,

John

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