Prayer and psychosomatic practices

[Herman Blaydoe]

I can't find my copy (must be loaned out), but in a book about the Jesus Prayer, Bishop Kallistos wrote the introduction. In it he has recommendations on proper breathing and specifically talks about focusing attention on the heart area. He warns against allowing the focus to drift to the abdomen where the bowels are. This is from memory so please forgive the fuzzy details.

[Trudy]

I can't find my copy (must be loaned out), but in a book about the Jesus Prayer, Bishop Kallistos wrote the introduction. In it he has recommendations on proper breathing and specifically talks about focusing attention on the heart area. He warns against allowing the focus to drift to the abdomen where the bowels are. This is from memory so please forgive the fuzzy details.

Before one begins implementing the breathing practices with the Jesus Prayer, one MUST consult with their Spiritual Father. It is my understanding that implementing the Heyschast practices with the prayer, if not done under the guidance of a Spiritual Father who has expereince with this practice can be more harmful than good. This I received from several priests and a monastic.

Don't mean to be alarming, but one must proceed with care and leading as one journey's deeper into prayer.

Forgive me, a sinner.

Athanasia

[Andreas Moran]

Athanasia is absolutely right. Contemporary elders and spiritual fathers discourage people from trying these breathing and other psychosomatic techniques.