Do You See Silence as a Gift?

Silence is a gift.

It is that simple.

When you practice silence, a calm comes over you to bring balance, regulating your nervous system. It may be one of the most difficult acts for some people, and for others it comes naturally. But, the question is, do you practice it?

On my retreat weekends we begin and end the days in silence. I could see immediately how some are incredibly challenged by this request. Questioning and reasoning is at the forefront before they will consider the practice. I can pick out the folks who immediately turn to a whisper, while I have to point out complete silence.  There are moments of humor, there are moments of fear, but by the end of weekend, it is the most popular comment is about how it surprised them. The conversation unfolds with the gifts they had learned in the challenge and how in fact it did allow them to find balance and inner calm changing how they approached their day.

Start small. Begin your mornings instead of reaching for your phone, rather being mindful as you make your coffee or tea. Listen to the noises around you. Take in the peace in your morning surroundings before the computer gets turned on and the phone starts ringing. When evening comes, pull out a journal, read a book, or simply find a breathing meditative mantra as you lay in bed.

When you protect your inner peace, your outer calm will bring the blessings you never expected.