Tip #25: Take a prayer nap

Say what? Prayer and napping seem rather mutually exclusive. But, I love both, so I figure why not? In her description of the prayer nap tip, Lorene Hanley Duquin says:

A prayer nap is a lot like a cat nap. The difference is that you imagine that you are resting in the arms of the Lord. Just find a quiet place and take a 10 to 15 minute prayer nap. You'll notice the difference right away!

While I've never tried a prayer nap, upon reflecting on what to write for this post, I realized that I have had several experiences like this in prayer – mostly in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament. Back in college at Franciscan University, I spent a lot of time in the dorm chapel, simply sitting with the Lord, enjoying his presence. There, I felt his arms around my shoulders, gently embracing and supporting me. I even felt him hold my hand to sooth my frustrations.

Maybe that seems weird, but maybe it's not. God makes himself present to us in so many ways, and feeling consolations like this is one of them. But remember, while these experiences are beautiful expressions of God's love, they are meant to ultimately lead us past them into a deeper relationship with God. Consolations should not be the focus of our prayer. Our relationship with the Lord can go way beyond feelings.

Let's just be with God

Prayer is defined in the Catechism of the Catholic Church as "the raising of one's mind and heart to God or the requesting of good things from God" (No. 2559). The "raising of one's mind and heart to God" part – that's where our relationship with God can truly grow. Psalm 46:10 says, "Be still and know that I am God." Prayer without words. When we get past the needs of this world and simply be with God. That's where God wants us. In silence, we can simply enjoy God's presence, and he ours.

Now is an ideal time for silence. Step away from your Christmas preparations for a moment and be with God. Try a prayer nap, or sit with him in adoration. Either way, he is waiting for you.


For more tips on how to celebrate a stress-free Advent, download this handy PDF. Also, here are a few articles about the beauty of silence:

• The value of silence by Teresa Tomeo
• Blessed silence by OSV Editorial Board
• Why No One Shuts Up by Marc Barnes