What Is Spiritual Contemplation? Is It Good For You?

Practices To Inspire Spiritual Contemplation

Spiritual contemplation starts with intentional practices. These practices calm the mind and open the heart to the Divine. They draw from ancient traditions and modern approaches and create a unique space for reflection and connection.

Here are some meaningful ways to enrich and deepen your contemplative journey:

Lectio Divina (Divine Reading)

Lectio Divina is a timeless practice that invites you to engage with Scripture reflectively and prayerfully. Rooted in tradition, this method consists of four steps designed to deepen your connection with God through His Word.

Here’s how you can practice it from the comfort of your home:

• Step 1: Lectio (Read). Select a short passage of Scripture, such as one from the Psalms or Gospels. Read it slowly and deliberately, allowing each word to resonate. Pay attention to phrases or verses that particularly stand out to you.
• Step 2: Meditatio (Reflect). Take a few moments to reflect on the passage. What meaning does it hold for you? How does it speak to your life right now? Let the words shape your thoughts as you explore their significance.
• Step 3: Oratio (Pray). Turn your reflections into prayer. Speak to God openly and honestly, sharing your thoughts, emotions, and questions as you would with a trusted friend. Allow this prayer to flow naturally from your heart.
• Step 4: Contemplatio (Contemplate). Finally, rest in God’s presence. Set aside words and simply be still, letting the insights you’ve gained settle into your soul. Embrace the quiet, allowing God’s peace to fill the moment.

Dedicating just 10-15 minutes a day to Lectio Divina can create a rhythm of calm reflection, nurturing your spirit amidst the hustle of life. This sacred practice offers a space to listen, reflect, and rest in God’s love. 

Silence And Solitude

Silence and solitude create space for spiritual reflection. They cut through the noise and distractions that clutter our minds. Cultivating moments of stillness doesn’t require a complete overhaul of your routine.

By following a few steps, you can create a space for quiet contemplation:

• Before starting your day, choose a peaceful spot where you won’t be interrupted—a cozy chair at home, a park bench, or even your car. 
• Find a comfortable position with your back straight, and gently close your eyes.
• Focus on your breathing, taking slow, deliberate inhales and exhales to calm your thoughts. 
• Invite God into the stillness with a simple prayer, such as, “Speak, Lord, your servant is listening.” 
• Remain in this moment, allowing yourself to rest without judgment or expectations. 

Adding this practice to your routine can transform small moments, create opportunities for connection, and help you notice God’s presence in daily life.

Guided Imagery 

Guided imagery is a powerful spiritual practice. It uses imagination to deepen reflection. Through visualization, individuals can focus on biblical themes or stories. It also helps connect with the presence of Christ in a personal way.

Here’s how to get started: 

• Find a quiet, comfortable space to sit and gently close your eyes. 
• Select a Scripture story, like Jesus calming the storm, or a theme like walking with God. 
• Begin to visualize the scene slowly. What do you see, hear, and feel? Immerse yourself fully, imagining you’re part of the moment. 
• Converse with God as though you’re living the experience in real-time. 
• Conclude the practice with gratitude, reflecting on the insights or emotions you encountered. 

Guided imagery works well for creative thinkers. It resonates with those who connect to storytelling and visuals. It brings Scripture and the presence of God to life, making the experience intimate and transformative.

Gratitude Journaling 

Opening our hearts with gratitude can lead to profound reflection and peace. Gratitude journaling blends mindfulness and prayer, encouraging us to focus on the blessings in our lives.

Here’s how to begin: 

• Write down three things you’re grateful for, no matter how small. 
• Take a moment to reflect on these blessings. How did they uplift or sustain you? 
• Offer a prayer of thanks, inviting God to guide you in the days ahead. 
• Conclude by sitting in silence, embracing the peace that gratitude brings. 

This practice deepens spiritual connection. It also nurtures a more positive and joyful outlook on life.

Breath Prayer 

Breath prayer is a simple yet powerful practice that connects prayer to the natural rhythm of your breathing. It’s beneficial during busy or stressful moments, offering a way to find peace and focus. Here’s how to begin: 

• Sit quietly and focus on your breathing. 
• Choose a short prayer or phrase, such as “Jesus” or “Holy Spirit, guide me.” 
• As you inhale, silently say the first part of your prayer (e.g., “Je”). As you exhale, say the second part (e.g., “sus”). 

Repeat this prayerful rhythm for a few minutes, allowing it to quiet your thoughts and center your spirit. Breath prayer can be practiced anywhere. It’s a simple and meaningful way to stay aware of God’s presence throughout your day.

Each practice offers a path to spiritual connection, helping you draw closer to God in a way that suits you. Whether through Lectio Divina or a simple breath prayer, the key is consistency and an open heart. Choose what feels natural, and trust that even small moments of stillness can bring deep insights.

Bringing Contemplation Into Everyday Life

You don’t need to live as a monk to embrace the transformative power of spiritual contemplation. These practices can be meaningfully integrated into the routines of everyday believers. Here’s how:

• Learn from Lay Cistercians. Lay Cistercians in South Florida live out the teachings of the Cistercian Order in their daily lives. They balance careers, families, and other commitments. Despite this, they make time for contemplative practices like Lectio Divina. You can follow their example by setting aside 10–15 minutes each morning or evening for prayer, Scripture reading, and reflection.
• Join a supportive community. A spiritual group offers encouragement, wisdom, and accountability. Connect with others on your contemplative path through local parish groups, prayer circles, or online communities.
• Create a sacred space. Transform a small, quiet corner of your home into a haven for contemplation. Complement the space with meaningful items like a candle, a Bible, or sacred icons—anything that inspires focus and invites peace.
• Embrace regular silence. Even brief moments of intentional silence can nurture a contemplative mindset. Turn off distractions, sit quietly, and simply notice your breath as you recenter your awareness of God’s presence. These pauses throughout your day can bring profound spiritual grounding.

By including these practices in your routine, you can experience the profound gifts of contemplation, no matter how busy life gets.