Let the Silence Speak
"The quieter you become, the more you can hear". - Ram Dass
In a world dominated by digital noise and constant connectivity, finding moments of genuine peace can feel like a quest for the Holy Grail. But the challenge is absolutely worth it. Consciously creating these moments of clarity has become an essential part of my life.
Since I first tried meditating, I've realized the power of this practice. Unplugging from the outer world and diving deeper into my inner world helped me navigate through the toughest times of my life, finding all the answers within. This is something I dedicate time to daily, something that helps me stay connected with my purpose, something that helps me stay connected with a self that's bigger than my body. Even when I don't have much time, 5 minutes of sitting in stillness as early as possible in the morning make a huge impact on how the rest of my day unfolds.
Spending 10 days in silence during a Vipassana retreat in Sri Lanka propelled me on an inward journey to the deepest depths. Vipassana, which means "to see things as they really are," is an ancient form of meditation that cultivates profound self-awareness and insight. The opportunity to be without my phone or any other electronic device, except for a torch, allowed me to disconnect from all external noises. I revisited my entire life, back to my birth, recognizing patterns that motivated me and recalling memories that were long forgotten. It was probably the trippiest and one of the most profound weeks of my life. I left the retreat with a deep sense of equanimity, understanding, and peace that lasted for a long time afterward.
But even before finding meditation in a cross-legged seat, spending time in nature was always my way of connecting with the inner world. Whether it was mountain hikes, connecting with water, or walking through a snowy forest, whatever was accessible to me, I embraced. I think the more open I was to life, the more opportunities I received on my path, the closer I got to myself. Pursuing these types of active meditation, in an attempt to connect more with life, I discovered surfing, and later, adventures led me to trek around Annapurna in the Himalayas. The vastness of nature around me, whether it was the ocean swell or the sacred peaks, reminded me of my place in the universe, filling each moment with a sense of wonder and awe.
How to Cultivate Stillness in Your Life?
I hope some 'whys' have become clearer; now, let's address the 'hows'.
The easiest way to cultivate stillness for yourself is to start the day with at least 3-5 minutes of sitting in silence, observing your breath. Later, explore longer meditations or different styles if you feel the calling.
Spend more time in nature, in whatever form speaks to you, be it walking in a park or a morning run, diving into the sea, or climbing a tree. There are no wrong choices. My recommendation would be to find a place where you can be by yourself, surrounded by flora and fauna, allowing your phone to remain silent, listening to the voice of stillness.
The next step would be to dedicate a day to embracing silence and stillness, unplugging from all technology. It is not merely an escape from the noise of modern life; it's a deliberate step towards self-discovery and inner tranquility. By setting aside time to disconnect, we create the space needed to engage with our thoughts, emotions, and the subtle yet profound aspects of our existence that are often overlooked, creating a one-day silent retreat for yourself.
To embark on this journey, it is essential to prepare both mentally and practically. Informing friends and family of your intentions can help manage expectations and minimize interruptions. Planning activities that nurture your sense of peace, such as meditation, yoga, or simply being in nature, can enrich the experience. Designating a technology-free zone and setting aside specific times for Vipassana meditation can structure the day and deepen the practice. Journaling throughout this period of silence and reflection can offer valuable insights into your thoughts and feelings. Engaging in mindful activities, whether it's walking in nature, practicing yoga, or sitting quietly in contemplation, can enhance your connection to the present moment and the world around you. Tiffany Shlain's book, “24/6,” provides further insights into embracing a technology-free day. Whatever you choose, whether it's embracing a full day of silence or dedicating parts of the day to connect with stillness, be ready to open a whole new life for yourself after welcoming the voices of silence.
About Yegor
With a background in practicing and teaching power vinyasa, handstands, arm balances, and functional movement, Yegor changed his life after discovering the FluidUs method. Now, he is passionate about sharing this revolutionary approach to yoga with others. Yegor teaches his classes in an approachable yet challenging manner, placing emphasis on creating the opportunity for a transformative experience for each student in the room. Prepare yourself to embark on a journey deep into the inner forest, heading towards the horizon of your peak potential, and discovering a new relationship with the richness of the living world underneath your skin.