In this episode, we explore the power and benefits of spending time in silence.

Timestamps to key points

[01:26] - Florence Nightingale quote

[01:48] - The etymology of “noise”

[02:23] - What the research on silence says

[05:10] - What do you think are the benefits of silence, when defined more broadly?

[05:25] - Reflect on the benefits of silence that you have experienced and noticed in others?

[06:10] - The benefits and value of silence at a personal level

[07:57] - A personal experience of silence and stillness

[08:46] - Silence enables us to know ourselves at a deeper level

[09:23] - David Whyte quote on silence and essence

Resources/further reading

• This Is Your Brain on Silence by Daniel A. Gross, published in Nautilus: http://nautil.us/issue/16/nothingness/this-is-your-brain-on-silence 
• WHO work on noise pollution in Europe: https://www.euro.who.int/en/health-topics/environment-and-health/noise/noise 
• The power of silence: 10 benefits of cultivating peace and quiet according by Meena Azzollini published on happiness.com: https://www.happiness.com/magazine/health-body/the-power-of-silence-cultivating-peace/ 

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review at https://lovethepodcast.com/contemplative-edge because I'd love to hear what insights you’ve had and whether it will change how much silence you build into your day.

In upcoming episodes, we’ll explore the silence in relationships, the paradox of silence and nature, and ways to make more use of silence.