So how do we practise noble silence?

Adapting noble silence for a busy modern life requires carving out intentional periods of quiet time throughout the day. This can be done in various ways: starting with a silent meditation in the morning, being mindful and slower in your speech when interacting with others and engaging in quiet activities in the evening without distractions from technology. You could try one meal a day in silence to focus entirely on the act of eating and the sensations involved. Enjoying a long walk in silence without listening to your favourite playlist or catching up on that podcast episode may not sound so appealing, but I promise it’s worth it.

How will engaging in noble silence benefit us?

Observing silence reduces external stimuli and mind chatter, creating space for mental clarity and calm, and enhancing awareness of our thoughts and emotions. Conserving energy usually spent on constant communication allows us to become more focused and present. It also helps us to communicate more thoughtfully and intentionally, improving our relationships. Overall the practice of noble silence provides a necessary break from the often overwhelming demands of daily life.

Are there any common pitfalls of your One Good Thing? How can we avoid them?

It may be difficult to settle into silence because of our habitual nature of constant communication. Starting with just a few minutes can help ease your way into longer periods. You may notice that in silence your thoughts become loud and intrusive. Bringing focus to your breath is a great way to anchor the mind and connect you to your body.

Attempting noble silence within a lively household or workplace can be challenging. It’s common to feel awkward or misunderstood, especially if those around you are unaware of your practice. This can be avoided by sharing your intention to observe periods of silence with family, friends and colleagues so they can support you.

One Good Thing: why we should all practise ‘noble silence’