A lost manuscript signed by none other than Charles IV, the Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, was found recently during the reconstruction of the historic Carolinum building. Archaeologists were stunned to discover that wellbeing – healthy mind and body – were just as important for the famous king as for health gurus and members of the public today! Even in the 14th century, the founder of Charles University understood how crucial it was to maintain a proper work/life balance and to watch one’s mental and physical health.
Here’s what scholars uncovered:
Content of the document "Imperium regere et sibi ipsi tempus habere" (How to rule the Empire and still have plenty of time for oneself):
• Time for relaxation during royal duties:
Planning and supporting construction projects such as cathedrals, bridges, and castles, through which I could realise my vision of beauty and stability. Finding peace and connection with nature by establishing vineyards.
(Under Charles IV's patronage, many significant structures were built, including Charles Bridge, St. Vitus Cathedral, and Karlštejn Castle. Vineyards were established on the hills around Prague).
• Maintaining physical and mental well-being:
Writing my autobiography, which could help future generations understand the life of a European monarch. Perfecting secondary languages. Regularly going hunting and occasionally participating in a knightly tournament. Tasting wine with Bušek of Velhartice.
(Charles IV authored his own autobiography, which was quite rare for the time. He also wrote other texts of historical and spiritual significance. He was fluent in several languages, including Latin, German, French, Italian, and Czech. Hunting and knightly tournaments were popular pastimes for the nobility, and royal tables often featured game, fish, and fruits like apples, pears, and grapes. Exotic fruits were rare and highly prized in the 14th century. Wine was the main beverage).
• Techniques for resting the mind and body:
Supporting and regularly visiting the construction of churches and monasteries, spending time in prayer. Acquiring more saintly relics.
(Charles IV was deeply religious, regularly attending services, fasting, and praying. He was also an avid collector of relics and founded pilgrimage sites to strengthen religious life within his empire).
In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to forget to take off for ourselves, to allow ourselves a chance to unwind. Even a monarch has to kick back sometime: you get tired from all that ruling! The discovered document serves as a reminder that caring for one's soul is not a modern concept. Let us be inspired by Charles IV and make time for ourselves, so our mind and body can remain in harmony. Right? Anytime, any time at all you feel you need a boost, support, a helping hand, look up Centrum Carolina.
