In September of 2016, I did a #winewellnesswednesday topic about stillness. (Text included below.) Silence is a related topic, and yet not entirely the same thing. It is possible to be still without appreciating silence, I think. Earlier this week, while sitting outside and savoring my coffee, I watched hummingbirds and dragonflies and other winged creatures dancing in the yard. I thought to myself, “When you sit in silence and with joy, you can hear the heartbeat of the Earth.” It became a new meditation mantra, as well as a #mondaymeditationminute.
I’ve heard people say that silence can be oppressive, and it can be true; when a considerable quantity of negative energy is present, or when bad news looms, and so on, silence can be overwhelming.
Silence can also be extremely peaceful, and even rejuvenating. I’ll probably change my mind in a day or so, as television makes good background noise when I’m cross stitching, however, for several days we’ve had no radio and no television. Reading, intermittent talking and laughter, working on my computer, enjoying the pleasant morning weather, and generally being quiet have been top of the priority list.
I hear and enjoy things I might not otherwise notice. The thrum of the hummingbird’s wings as it explores the garden. The sound of the rain coming off the roof. The neighbor’s roosters. The ever so slight snores of my sleeping dogs.
It’s been marvelous.
When was the last time you appreciated peaceful silence?
Cheers! Here’s to your health!
***
I’ve talked about meditation, but today I want to talk about stillness, about just being present with what you’re doing and settling down for quiet time. I’m not focusing on meditation or mindfulness (both excellent topics), although being still could be considered to be related to both of those. It’s just not being frantically busy. Be still. Sit for a conversation. Stop. Take a breath. Step back from hectic. What are the benefits? You’ll be more focused on where you are and what you’re doing. I had the opportunity today after a long day to have a nice, if brief, conversation over a glass of wine, seated in the back yard, enjoying the gorgeous weather. It was one of those moments I felt very present and blissfully still, even though the dogs were hectic and my friend’s small child was active. It helped me set a tone for the remainder of my day and remind me that small moments mean a lot. Blood pressure down, tiredness level dissipated a bit, and contentment level went way up. (And yes, there will be a future post – or posts! – about the benefits of mindfulness…) :)
Where can you make a moment in your day to be still and be present with yourself or with those around you?
Cheers! Here’s to your health!