This is a brilliant concept, beautifully delivered... told with great knowledge, with a view to passing on lessons learnt many hundreds of years ago, but still so relevant today. This highly original work is the perfect antidote to the stresses of modern life. - Charles Spencer, historian and best-selling author

We know that they prayed, sang, and wore long robes - but what was it really like to be a monk? Though monastic living may seem unimaginable to us moderns, it has relevance for today. This book illuminates the day-to-day of medieval European monasticism, showing how you can apply the principles of monastic living - like finding balance and peace - to your life.

Using wit and insight, medievalist and podcaster Daniele Cybulskie dives into the history of monasticism in each chapter and then reveals applications for today, such as the benefits of healthy eating, streamlining routines, gardening, and helping others. She shares how monks authentically embraced their spiritual calling, and were also down to earth: they wrote complaints about being cold in the manuscripts they copied, made beer and wine, and even kept bees.

This book features original illustrations by Anna Lobanova, as well as more than 100 colour reproductions from medieval manuscripts. It is for anyone interested in the Middle Ages and those seeking inspiration for how to live a full life, even when we're confined to the cloister - or our homes.