Modern research supports monastic secrets for a calmer, happier life

In an age of constant notifications, never-ending to-do lists, and global uncertainty, finding inner peace can feel impossible. Yet, for centuries, medieval monks cultivated a life of balance and serenity amid the challenges of their time.

As discussed on Medievalists.net, historian and podcaster Danièle Cybulskie explores how their timeless wisdom can help us today in her book How to Live Like a Monk: Medieval Wisdom for Modern Life and in a recent episode of The Medieval Podcast, titled “How to Live Like a Monk in Stressful Times.”

Monastic life was not just about prayer; it was about creating a structured, meaningful existence. The Rule of St. Benedict, the guiding principle for many medieval monasteries, emphasized a rhythm of work, study, rest, and community. As noted on Medievalists.net, modern neuroscience backs up what these monks already understood — routine and mindfulness are key to mental well-being.

Cybulskie highlights how monastic schedules were not about rigid rules but about creating a framework that supported both spiritual and emotional health.

A core aspect of monastic life is simplicity. Monks deliberately remove distractions, focusing instead on what truly matters. This is a lesson that resonates today, as Medievalists.net points out in its exploration of how medieval wisdom applies to modern life.

Strategies such as decluttering, setting boundaries on work, and carving out time for solitude reflect the monastic pursuit of clarity and purpose. Research, like that found in Altered Traits: Science Reveals How Meditation Changes Your Mind, Brain, and Body by Daniel Goleman and Richard J. Davidson, further confirms that monastic contemplation can rewire the brain for greater resilience and emotional stability.

While monks embraced solitude, they were not isolated. Community was at the heart of their existence. They worked together, ate together, and supported one another. As Cybulskie explains in her podcast, modern research confirms what monastic communities also knew centuries ago: strong social bonds are crucial for mental health. Medievalists.net discusses how monks found joy not just in their spiritual lives but in communal experiences—whether through shared meals, collaborative work, or acts of service.

Interestingly, medieval monks also had a sense of humor. As highlighted in Medievalists.net’s look at medieval manuscripts, scribes often left witty complaints in the margins about cold fingers and long hours of copying texts. Their ability to embrace both hardship and humor reminds us that a meaningful life isn’t about perfection but about finding joy even in the small, imperfect moments.

Cybulskie, a former professor and one of the most recognized voices in medieval studies, brings warmth and humor to her exploration of monastic living. While we may not all don robes or take vows, we can integrate monastic principles into our modern routines. That could mean setting aside moments of quiet, engaging in meaningful work, or simply slowing down to appreciate the present.

In this episode of The Medieval Podcast, Cybulskie revisits science-backed monastic strategies for managing stress — offering insights that feel particularly relevant in today’s fast-paced world. Again, monastic wisdom is not about escaping the world, but about living within it with intention.

Monks’ approach to balance, purpose, and community offers lessons we can still apply today.

We may not live in a monastery, but perhaps we can all bring a little monastic serenity into our daily lives. Have you tried adopting any monastic habits?