Our world is full of stimulating sounds through music, television, nearby people, traffic, the “noise” of emails, texts, social media, calls, etc. It can be overwhelming and even stressful. Although some find comfort in being surrounded by noise, it can be a distraction and contribute to the loss of the ability to focus.  When you get so conditioned to such a noise-filled world, you may find it unusual or even uncomfortable to spend time in the quiet, without any disruptions or constant sound stimulation.  However, learning to embrace the quiet has many benefits.

By embracing the quiet, you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself and the world. Quiet or silence creates an environment conducive to focus and concentration, allowing you to perform tasks more effectively. In fact, psychology states that silence is a potent force that can promote mental clarity, foster self-awareness, facilitate brain health, and induce physiological relaxation.  Therefore, quiet time can help reduce stress, improve mental clarity, enhance creativity, help emotional regulation, and increase self-awareness. 

With this, perhaps some “down time” or quiet is what you need.  To get more comfortable with it and embrace it. Below are a few things you can try to help make embracing the quiet more of a habit in your life and daily routine.

8 Ways to Incorporate Silence in Your Busy Day:

1. Take a few quiet minutes each morning to clear your mind and listen to your breath. Perhaps set an intention for the day or take a moment of gratitude while you’re at it.
2. Find (or create) a place in your living space that you can make a little “sanctuary” for yourself – even if just a small corner – for you to read, journal, sit quietly, or be…without distractions.
3. Take a moment to drink a coffee, tea, or water in the morning. Do so on the porch or somewhere outside or even somewhere inside without the television or radio on…and/or without your phone.
4. Turn the radio off while driving.  Give the act of driving your full attention.  You may be surprised by what you notice.
5. Pause for a moment before speaking or replying to someone.
6. Go on a walk. Without a gadget or phone, allow yourself to get lost in the sounds, feels, smells of good ol’ Mother Nature.
7. Enjoy a silent evening.  Disconnect from the TV, Cell Phone, or Laptop.
8. Make room for quietness with yourself.  Let your mind just be.  Embrace the thoughts that arise, but also try to simply focus on your breath to help clear the clutter of your head.

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