Welcome to the Monks of Action

A commitment to a better life

The Monks of Action is a non-denominational organization aimed at improving lives through healthy living and spiritual exercise. We advocate a daily regimine of rest, exercise, healthy eating and prayer. Members build upon this a meaningful life balance to improve all areas of their life.

Premise

The premise of this organization is to provide a healthy structure in which people can live. Because every human being has a different experience in life the guidelines of the organization are flexible. For some people certain things are not avoidable, or things which they are not willing to give up. Every improvement made brings health, life and happiness. Most people are aware of the life they would like to live and what is required to achieve that life.

One becomes a Monk of Action by taking vows which will bring one closer to being that which one wants to be. The vows are chosen and made by the individual. The guidelines are encouraged, and members are welcome to choose additional vows which they feel are worthy. The person then assets to adhere to the code of behaviour and lifestyle as closely as possible. Every day one asserts themselves to live to their vows. The most important time to keep your vows is now, today. The second most important time to keep them is tomorrow. The least important is yesterday. Every day one asserts their vows in their life.

Vows can be changed if they are simply not realistic, or not well chosen. If a vow is well chosen and will lead to a desired result then members are encouraged to persevere.

Guidelines

Diet

• Determine any food allergies, intolerances, or sensitivities. Remove them completely from your diet.
• Determine and elminate any addictions, food, drink, drug or otherwise.
• Avoid all artificial flavors, colors, and sweeteners.
• Avoid foods with (added) sugar or high sugar content.
• Avoid alcohol, drugs, cigarettes, and reduce the amount of caffeine
• Whenever possible find fresh, local food.

Exercise

• Not less than 30 minutes per day of exercise.
• This can be anything. Walking at lunch, dogwalking, yoga, weightlifting, sports.
• Have a variety of activities and ensure that you do at least one of them per day.

Spiritual Study / Prayer / Work

• Not less than 30 minutes per day.
• One day of the week not less than 2 hours.
• This can be prayer, meditation, attending church, study, reading or the spiritual activity of choice.

Charitable Giving / Community Work

• Donate not less than 1% of income to a charity / group / organization which you feel is meaningful.
• Donate an average of 2 hours per week to a charity or community group.

Period of Reflection

Every year there is a period of reflection between 1 and 3 days immediately before the new year. (it doesn't matter what day it is, as long as it is once a year. For me it is the Gregorian new year). A person examines the vows they have taken, and the effect it has had on their life, hopefully positive but maybe negative. The vows are adjusted with this gained wisdom and, on the new year, the individual then re-asserts themselves to uphold the new vows in every day of the new year.

If you like what is going on here and would like to become more involved

nathan (at) dndb.org is my email. If there are enough interested parties we can make something more formal and provide a place for members to share ideas and encourage one another.