The retreats that are organized in the West and East (retreat is the international term used for such spiritual exercises) cannot be implemented for the majority of Armenians for several reasons. First, of course, many people cannot allow for such extravagance and take a one-month vacation in a faraway place.
Secondly, those who follow the teachings of Armenian Apostolicism have hesitations towards other spiritual teachings. And finally, we have our way of relaxing and getting away from the stresses of everyday life. One of its most important ingredients is eating foods high in calories and drinking. That culture usually has its spiritual component as well, which we typically describe as a “pilgrimage.” People eat and drink close to churches either before or after going to the churches.
Anyways, retreats are not meant for us. Instead, I would like to suggest my version of detoxifying, which does not require any materials and does not go against our spiritual traditions and culture. Once a week for an entire day, we should turn off our cell phones and other devices that allow us to remain connected to the world outside us.
Read the entire editorial in Armenian: https://www.aravot.am/2020/08/25/1131158/
Aram Abrahamyan
