The Psychosomatic Method of Practicing the Jesus Prayer in the Works of Saint Ambrose of Optina

Abstract

The article examines the psychosomatic method of practicing the Jesus Prayer in the works of Saint Ambrose of Optina. It explores the patristic understanding of prayer as an integral process uniting spiritual, psychological, and bodily aspects. Special attention is given to St. Ambrose's teaching on the three stages of prayer (oral, mental, and heartfelt), his warnings about the spiritual dangers of prematurely striving for higher forms of prayer practice, as well as his recommendations for proper concentration of mind and heart. The analysis includes the influence of patristic tradition (particularly hesychasm) on the elder's views, his approach to combining prayer with physical actions (such as prostrations), and the role of spiritual guidance in the practice of the Jesus Prayer. The conclusion states that despite limited direct mention of psychosomatic techniques, St. Ambrose's teaching reflects the traditional Orthodox perspective on the harmonious interaction of soul and body in prayer practice.