Silence has many effects. It can be heavy, thoughtful, awkward, grim, loud, unnerving, and even unnecessary. Many people have their own opinion on silence, particularly about when it’s necessary and when it’s not.
benefits of silence
Here’s why silence is incredibly important in our day to day lives:
1. offers time for self-reflection
Silence can activate numerous parts of the brain. Silence gives a person time to increase awareness of what matters most to them. This can lead to mindfulness and appreciation of being in the moment.
2. helps process one’s emotions
When practicing silence, you allow the brain to process your emotions. When processing your emotions you may feel freer and liberated from mental chains. When liberated from emotions, you can move forward with your mental health.
3. Supports better decision-making
Many things are constantly running through our brains and overthinking can make decision-making harder. If the brain is overthinking, there is no time for “resetting” or “relaxing” and a person cannot think straight. Silence can help someone have a better experience with clarity and decision making, which in turn, improves their life.
4. Provides physical benefits
Silence and solitude relax a person’s body and can lead to physical healing. Relaxation is important for healing because when someone is stressed, their body cannot fully repair. When the body is relaxed, it can heal faster.
how to practice silence
Twenty minutes of meditation is not necessary, but you should pause multiple times throughout the day. It can range from seconds to minutes depending on the person. Whether it be sitting, reading, or even daydreaming, there is something out there for everyone.