🏰St. Teresa of Avila wrote 'The Interior Castle' as a guide to explore the seven stages of prayer.
🗝️The first stage of prayer is vocal prayer, where one recites prayers using words.
🧠The second stage is mental prayer, where one begins to engage their mind and thoughts in prayer.
🌟The third stage is the prayer of simplicity, where one experiences a deeper connection with God.
🕊️The fourth stage is infused contemplation, where one receives divine inspirations without effort.