When was the last time you spent more than a minute or two in silence?

Have you ever actually planned a time to spend in silence?

I am talking about real, pure, silence – no music, no phones ringing, no talking to anyone, no reading (when we read we are actually conversing with the author!), no talking to your self, no watching TV with the sound off… just silence.

The revered ancient Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu is quoted as saying that “Silence is a source of great strength.” 

Those of you follow the news regarding health have probably heard on a regular basis that the stress reducing effects of meditation provide health benefits. One of the simplest forms of meditation is just spending a few minutes in complete silence and stillness.

It seems easy—because it is a simple concept—and yet, slowing down, being still, and being quiet are very difficult things for most people to do in our busy, noisy world.

I remember a story a friend told me after he and his wife had returned from attending a weekend silent retreat.  By lunchtime on the first day his wife was attempting to spell words to him with the little carrot shreds from the salad that was served!

Mahatma Gandhi once said that in the attitude of silence the soul finds the path in a clearer light, and what is elusive and deceptive resolves itself into crystal clearness.

When we get very clear about our path we are able to move forward with great strength.  When we begin to move forward with absolute clarity, strength and commitment the Universe will begin to offer us much support.

As Goethe said, “At the moment I commit, the Universe conspires to assist me.”

Certainly spending time being quiet is not something that happens by accident, at least not often enough to be of benefit.  

I would like to encourage you to purposefully plan  to spend some time being silent, and being still. 

Not doing.  Just being. 

Maybe you can try it for just ten minutes at first.

Breathe deep, relax, and enjoy.  May you find the strength, and clarity, spoken of above.

I would love to hear about your experience.

Love & Magic,

Cindie