Silence – The Eternal Presence

“True silence is the rest of the mind, and is to the spirit what sleep is to the body, nourishment and refreshment.” – William Penn

Whenever I am in nature, whether it is at the ocean, hiking or in my backyard garden, I am aware of the silence below the surface. To me, it is the voice of the eternal presence that supports everything. When we can anchor ourselves in that silence we can feel its rhythm and begin moving with it.  Life becomes a flow. It isn’t so much a matter of finding the silence, as it’s paying attention to what is already here.

Embracing some silence in our life is a powerful thing. It gives us time to internalize, to check in with ourselves and ask questions. It’s easy to get distracted and continually look externally by engaging with the world around us. But with silence, there is no escape. It’s just you and that big spacious void.

I set aside moments of silence each morning and evening. All it takes is a subtle shift of attention from “out there” to the part of you that is always aware—right here, right now. Learning to be aware of the silence is one of the most important skills you can attain. How else will you discover who you really are if you don’t take the time to stop and listen?  In addition, research has shown silence reduces stress and anxiety and increases peace, creativity and intuition.

The Balanese hold a Day of Silence each year called Nyepi. On this day all of the Balinese retreat into their houses from 6 am till 6 am the next day. Even the airport closes for the day, which is remarkable.

There are so many ways to connect with silence. A daily meditation practice is one as I mentioned. Observing nature is also a great way to connect.  Being aware of the hush that precedes the break of day, the silence in the setting sun, and gazing upon a flower recognizing that you are connected and both part of the same larger universe. When you’re aware of your own inner stillness—and its eternal presence—you consciously connect with that great ocean of Pure Being that is always supporting and sustaining you.

You can find guided meditations I have created to support you on your journey into silence on my Meditations page.  Check them out.  This one will help slow your thinking mind down and find that silence allowing you to tap into your inner knowing. https://soundcloud.com/casey-conerly/breath-and-affirmation