Why You're Tired When Praying

Prayer can sometimes feel like an uphill battle, especially when fatigue sets in. Why does it seem as if we are tired whenever we go to pray?

Understanding Exhaustion in Prayer

Prayer is not merely a passive activity; it requires active engagement of the mind, body, and soul. When we are already tired, the effort to focus in prayer can feel monumental.

It is a common temptation to give into distractions rather than focusing on prayer. This tendency to zone out, especially with the lure of technology at our fingertips, can make prayer feel more challenging than it already is. Recognizing this pattern is the first step towards building a more fulfilling prayer life.

The Nature of True Rest

In our fast-paced world, rest is increasingly misunderstood. Many of us equate rest with mindlessness — watching television or scrolling through social media. However, true rest is an active state that rejuvenates the body and soul. It calls for intentionality, not disengagement.

It is right to approach prayer as rest. However, when we conflate rest with mindlessness, we might be disappointed when we turn to prayer, since prayer requires our active attention.

Zoning Out vs. Paying Attention

Many of us find ourselves zoning out during prayer. This phenomenon can be exacerbated by our reliance on technology, which conditions us to expect instant gratification and constant stimulation.

Our smartphones and other devices have become ever-present in our lives, often at the expense of our attention spans. The disruption of constant notifications and the allure of social media with all its addictive patterns can make it challenging to be attentive, even to the Lord in prayer.

Recognizing when we zone out in prayer is crucial. It is a sign that we are not fully present to Jesus. By acknowledging this, we can begin to refocus on Him.

Practical Tips to Stay Present

It can be easy for us to go through life in a state of autopilot, often missing the beauty of the present moment. This lack of awareness can spill over into our prayer life, where we may find it challenging to engage fully with the Lord.

Waking up to our own lives requires intentionality. Here are three practical tips:

1. Keep spiritual books accessible. When you have a spare minute, pick up a book for true nourishment instead of scrolling your phone or watching yet another reel.
2. Be honest with Jesus. If you're frustrated, tired, or anxious to check your phone — tell Him about it.
3. Frequent the sacraments for grace. All you need to do is show up, however exhausted and empty you feel.

These small habits can serve as anchors during times of tiredness, helping you to reconnect with God, even when you are overwhelmed.

Waking Up to Our Lives

Feeling tired when praying is a common struggle, but it doesn't have to hinder our spiritual growth. By recognizing this pattern and implementing new strategies, we can rebuild a spirit of attentiveness and reset our prayer lives. 

Remember, prayer is a journey, and there will be challenges along the way. Let us confidently turn to Jesus for the grace to be attentive to our own lives and to His presence most of all.

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