Try these 5 Steps For Inner Peace at Work

If a jar of wine is left in place a long time, the wine in it becomes clear, settled and fragrant. But if it is moved about, the wine becomes turbid and dull, tainted throughout by the lees. So you, too, should stay in the same place and you will find how greatly this benefits you.

—Evagrius Ponticus, The Philokalia: The Complete Text, Volume 1, translated by E. Kadloubovsky and G. E. H. Palmer (London: Faber and Faber, 1979), page 35

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 The word “hesychia” means stillness.

Hesychia, a term derived from the Greek word for "stillness" or "silence," holds profound significance in Christian spirituality, particularly within the Eastern Christian tradition. It refers to a state of inner tranquility and deep communion with God, achieved through contemplative prayer and the quieting of the mind. Christians seeking to practice hesychia can begin by setting aside dedicated time each day for silent prayer or meditation, focusing on the presence of God and allowing distractions to fade away. Techniques such as the Jesus Prayer—repeating "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner"—can help center the mind and heart. Creating a peaceful environment, free from the noise and busyness of daily life, also aids in cultivating this sacred stillness. By embracing hesychia, believers can deepen their relationship with God, finding solace and strength in the quiet moments of divine connection.

Here are Five Steps to implement stillness or hesychia into your life:

- Begin each day with a few minutes of silent prayer or meditation, focusing on the presence of God and setting a peaceful tone for the day.

- Incorporate short, mindful breaks throughout the workday to pause, breathe deeply, and recenter your thoughts on God's presence.

- Practice gratitude by taking a moment to thank God for small blessings and achievements, fostering a sense of peace and contentment.

- End the day with a brief period of reflection and prayer, reviewing the day's events and seeking God's guidance and peace for the future.

- Create a dedicated, quiet space at home for prayer and meditation, free from distractions, to cultivate a habit of regular, peaceful communion with God.

Hesychia can be a powerful tool for managing work-related stress.

By incorporating practices that promote inner quiet and mindfulness, such as deep breathing, meditation, or contemplative prayer, individuals can create a mental space that allows for greater clarity and emotional balance. This state of inner calm can help reduce the physiological effects of stress, such as elevated heart rate and blood pressure, and improve overall mental well-being. Regularly engaging in hesychia can enhance focus, increase resilience to stressors, and foster a more positive outlook.