St Ignatius Brianchaninov: Guidelines for Spiritual and Monastic Life
In communities where the evening rule is not performed in church but in the cells, the “Prayers Before Sleep” should be read after bows. Besides this, those who wish and who feel that they are strong enough read akathists, canons, the Psalter, and the intercession. We must remember that the essence of the work of prayer consists not in the quantity of the prayers read but in reading such prayers as are read with attention and with the sympathy of the heart, so that a deep and strong impression may be left on the soul.
St Ignatius (Brianchaninov)
The Arena: Guidelines for Spiritual and Monastic Life
