Silence is simply no sound, no noise, calm & quiet. In spirituality silence is a symbol for inner tranquility. A silent mind freed from turbulent thoughts and thought processes;amplifies the inner peace and enlarges scope of influence amongst the group. The “inner silence” is not about the absence of sound; instead, it is understood to bring one in contact with the marvelous energy. The practice of Silence is a realization to one’s own true self & transforms the individual to develop the divine character. The practitioners of Silence enjoys great influence. Usually, they are cool, calm, cheerful, remains balanced even amidst hostilities. S/he speaks less but his/her words carry more meaning & acceptance. The one who engaged in Silence is smiling, never gets disturbed or humiliated, handles the awkward situation tactfully & sensitively as his/her all senses are in complete control. Usually, all top CEOs practice silence midst of their hectic schedule. They integrate all the employees in accomplishing corporate vision & steergrowth/profit to their organization.
In this mechanical, fast paced world, we are bombarded with sounds, aggression, cut throat competition, conflict, negativity, fear & uncertainty. The dilemma is, we are living in an “age of noise,” silence has become almost an unheard.
Various scientific studies have proved that, Silence improves physical, mental health & promotes overall well-being. Major, health benefits of silence includes, it keeps the blood pressure under control & may help to prevent heart attack.
Silence & Religion:
“Silence” in spirituality is often represents inner peace. In Christianity, there is the silence of contemplative prayer(centering prayer). The wisdom scriptures of the Sufis in Islam insist on the silence within. Buddhism, proposes spiritual enlightenment is possible by observing Silence. Hinduism advocates ‘Maun Vrata’ or embracing god in Silence for innergrowth. Hinduism also strongly believes Silence is a source of great strength.
Just as noise triggers a range of detrimental effects on the body’s systems, silence can help heal those challenges. Studies show that silence can actually stimulate new cell growth in the brain, improve memory, and reduce tension in the brain and body.
Silence is good for health and well-being• Controls blood pressure, can help to prevent heart attack.• Boost the body’s immune system.• Improves the cognitive function of the brain.• Reduces stress by lowering blood cortisol levels and adrenaline.
Scientific studies• A study in the journal Heart in 2006 found that ‘Silence’ can relieve tension in few minutes. ‘Silence’ is more “relaxing” for your body and brain than listening to music – as measured by a lowering of blood pressure and increased blood flow to the brain. • A study published in 2015 in Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) Internal Medicine found that, spending some time each day in silence, specifically in mindfulness meditation, it reduced insomnia & fatigues among senior citizens.• Joint study conducted by WHO & European Commissions Joint Research centre found that an exposure to noise pollution can lead to high BP, heart attacks.
1. Meditation
One of the easiest and most effective ways of embracing silence is by practicing meditation. You can meditate even while travelling in air, commuting from one end of city to other, between office tight schedules one can sit in a silence for few minutes. But best time to meditate is in the morning or evening at home.
2. Create silent work culture
Try and analyze workplace noise pollutants and minimizethem. Talking loudly, telephone rings, Television sound, high pitch noise deviates attention and affects the performance of Staff. Pious environment enhances potential and productivity.
Talk politely, talk when it is essential, use sparingly social media/mobiles (which are packed with negate messages). Enjoy being in nature, the eloquent smile of watching birds, aquatic animals, rains, clouds, pets gives internal happiness. Silence gives divine energy.
Dr. Pramod N Sulikeri, Ph.D Send your feed back to; mayarogya.in@gmail.com
