Essay on Importance of Prayer, Reflection and Meditation

Introduction

Prayer, meditation and reflection are fundamental aspects of our daily lives. These aspects have been found to be highly beneficial thus are practiced by members of major world religions such as Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Buddhism. It is believed that those who pray, reflect and seriously meditate every day benefit much as they become strong in the spirit. After reading Henri Nouwen's book entitled 'Spiritual Formation', I have come to realize that there are various benefits of prayer, meditation and reflection. Although each religion has its way of doing things, none ignores the benefits of the three religious aspects.

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One major importance of prayer, meditation and reflection is that it alleviates the stress and suffering associated with life in this world. In prayer, one finds answers to their suffering while in meditation and reflection, which can be viewed as divine silence, one can find peace as they stop conversing within their mind. With such calm and peace, a person who may have been suffering can clear their mind thus reducing chances of getting stressed. Peace of mind is very crucial in helping one concentrate on the more significant aspects of life such as studies, work, family, ministry among others. This makes prayer, meditation and reflection essential aspects of everyday life as they promote mental stability.

With stress levels lowered by prayer, reflection and meditation, it becomes possible for one to live a happy life. One lives happily irrespective of the challenges that they may be going through. This is because they can control their thoughts. Generally, human beings are prone to negative thoughts which are highly likely to make them unhappy. However, if one is able to control such thoughts and be positive as they wait for answers to their troubles, they are likely to be happy. I have learnt that true happiness can most likely be found in prayer, meditation and reflection. Those who regularly carry out these activities, even if for only fifteen minutes each day, are happy since they are highly positive about life.

With the happiness that is brought about by prayer, meditation and reflection, one's physical health is likely to improve. I have discovered that people who pray, meditate and reflect have stronger spirits hence rarely fall sick, and if they do, they are able to heal faster. Also, it has often been argued that conditions such as high blood pressure, heart diseases among others are highly likely to be triggered by internal turmoil. This means that people who are unhappy in life are vulnerable to such diseases. If they meditate, pray and reflect often, they will be happy thus keep diseases at bay. Persistence matters as the benefits are not immediate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is clear that prayer, meditation and reflection are greatly significant to the mental, emotional and physical well-being of individuals. The three activities are associated with a certain emotional calmness that leads to reduced stress levels, increased happiness and good health. Nouwen is very articulate about the importance of prayer, reflection and meditation in his book, 'Spiritual Formation'. The emphasis is on the well-being of individuals. This well-being is brought about by spiritual strength and peace from within. Therefore, I would like to encourage every person to immerse themselves in prayer, reflection and meditation each day.