Silence is essential. We need silence just as much as we need air, just as much as plants need light. If our minds are crowded with words and thoughts, there is no space for us.
Thich Nhat Hanh, Zen Buddhist monk. teacher and peace activist
You cannot truly listen to anyone and do anything else at the same time.
M Scott Peck, psychiatrist, author
Staying with my August theme of how sacred idleness is so valuable, I want to end August with an appreciation for the sound of silence. Taking a “silence” time out rewires the brain.
Mindfully having hushed space grows our understanding of the person we call me. I am cultivating my garden of meditation, listening without judgment, growing the flowers of acceptance and self-compassion. This is why I cherish my daily meditation outdoor walks. It’s my daily meeting with myself to practice being mindful. Devices like earbuds are not allowed. I stop to hug my favorite old tree soaking in some of its precious Qi.
When new authors or composers begin writing, the inclination is to fill every page and use all the notes. Beginners don’t leave pauses or rests. I remember my first composition instructor pointing this out, a profound lesson which I keep passing on. Teachers, musicians, actors, speechmakers, presenters, filmmakers, dancers, artists famously say that it is the empty spaces, the silences that can have the most profound impact.
Guess what? It’s the same with our over-functioning busy lives. The pauses are the air we need for our me. They can often feel inspirational.
Suggestions to help you explore quietude can include listening to music, reading, drawing, poetry, or simply ambling serenely perhaps near water.
Here’s to languishing and lingering in the quiet as lovely summer wanes.
Part of doing something is listening. We are listening. To the sun. To the stars. To the wind.
Madeleine L’Engle, American writer of fiction, non-fiction & poetry
Today’s Prescription :
pause and listen for the sound of silence 1-3X a day.
Guaranteed to change you in a wonderful way.