June 10, 1341 - Hesychasm Prayer Approved

Hesychasm is a type of experiential prayer that is used primarily in the Eastern Orthodox Church involving a series of breathing techniques and body posture. Typically, priests will repeat “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner” as they perform these breathing exercises. This prayer form was first proposed by St. Gregory Palamas, who claimed the practice helped church members see the light of God. On June 10, 1341, a church council in Constantinople approved Hesychasm.