Workshops

I love a bit of silence and actually spent a whole 3 weeks in silence a few years ago. Being in silence around other people is an interesting practice, we can connect to each other without having to engage in ‘polite chit chat,’ we learn to recognise non verbal cues, we become more quietly aware.

Silence with others gifts us the opportunity to notice how we feel in certain situations without distraction. It allows us to come home to ourselves. Silence is a balm that helps us to recover from our overstimulated super fast lives.

Join Angela for this wonderful opportunity to retreat within and enjoy a day filled with silent slow practice. The day will include posture work, breathing practice, meditation and deep relaxation too. All participants will experience the profound and beautiful practice of Mouna (Conscious silence). This means no talking by you from at least 10am til 3.45pm

The daoist philosopher Lao Tzu said:

“Knowing others is intelligence; knowing yourself is true wisdom.
Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power.”

Below are 7 good reasons why making more time for silence is a very good idea.

1. Calms the Nervous System

Silence reduces sensory input, helping the body shift from the fight-or-flight state (sympathetic nervous system) to the rest-and-digest mode (parasympathetic nervous system). This can lower heart rate, blood pressure, and stress hormone levels like cortisol.

2. Boosts Mental Clarity

Quiet moments give your brain a chance to process thoughts, declutter mental noise, and enhance focus and problem-solving skills. It’s like hitting the “reset” button for your mind.

3. Enhances Emotional Well-Being

Silence creates space for self-reflection, allowing you to tune into your emotions and thoughts. This can lead to increased self-awareness and emotional regulation.

4. Encourages Creativity

Without constant external stimuli, the brain has room to wander, which can foster creativity and original thinking.

5. Improves Cognitive Function

Research shows that silence can lead to the growth of new brain cells in the hippocampus, a region associated with memory, learning, and emotional regulation.

6. Deepens Connection to Nature and the Present Moment

In silence, subtle sounds like rustling leaves or birdsong become more noticeable. This heightened awareness fosters mindfulness and a sense of connection to the natural world.

7. Supports Spiritual Practices

In many traditions, silence is a gateway to deeper spiritual insight. It allows you to attune to inner wisdom and cultivate a sense of peace and interconnectedness.