What is "spatiamentum"

Spatiamentum is a part of the weekly regime of the Carthusian Order of monks.

These monks have a very strict monastic life. Most of the daily routines are conducted alone and in silence. Once a week, on a Monday, the monks take a Spatiamentum, which is a four-hour extended walk. During the walk they talk freely. They walk in pairs and change partners every half-hour. This means that during a Spatiamentum each monk will converse with eight others. This permits a fraternal sharing between the monks. It is an important complement to what is otherwise an extremely solitary life.

The Spatiamentum also provides physical space and exercise. Conversation during the walk is light-hearted and simple.