Episode 78: Stillness
In the 78th episode, Dr. Knabb explores the psychological and spiritual benefits of inner stillness. He first discusses stillness from a secular psychological perspective, reviewing definitions and research on transcendental meditation (TM). Then, Dr. Knabb discusses a Christian version of inner stillness, hesychia, pursued with the Jesus Prayer. To conclude, Dr. Knabb offers a short prayer practice, the Jesus Prayer, for pursuing inner stillness, silence, and concentration within the Christian tradition.
The Christian Psychologist: Mental Health for 21st Century Christ Followers
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Show Notes
References
Alvarez-Perez, Y., Rivero-Santana, A., Perestelo-Perez, L., Duarte-Diaz, A., Ramos-Garcia, V., Toledo-Chavarri, A., & Serrano-Aguilar, P. (2022). Effectiveness of mantra-based meditation on mental health: A systematic review and meta-analysis. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(6), 3380.
Knabb, J. (2021). Christian meditation in clinical practice: A four-step model and workbook for therapists and clients. IVP Academic.
Orme-Johnson, D. W., Barnes, V. A., Rees, B., & Tobin, J. (2025). Systematic review and meta-analysis of transcendental meditation for post-traumatic stress disorder. Medicina, 61(4), 659.
Nikodimos. (Ed.). (1782). Philokalia. R.P. Pryne.
Roth, B. (2022). Strength in stillness: The power of transcendental meditation. Simon & Schuster.