Silence is golden

Research reveals modern living is noisier than ever, but you don’t have to check into an expensive retreat to reap the benefits of silence Monica Cafferky reports

There’s no doubt that the world is getting louder. Many of us experience traffic or construction noise, and loud appliances, at home. Then there’s the endless bleeps, beeps and phone calls that follow us on a daily basis.

And this increase in noise hasn’t gone unnoticed. According to the Noise Abatement Society, 57 per cent of adults want a quieter home. Elsewhere, a survey for Whirlpool found that 54 per cent of people have arguments with their partners about noise levels.

And it’s not just our relationships suffering, as noise pollution can cause health problems too.

“Noise adversely affects people’s health, mental health and wellbeing,” says Gloria Elliott, chief executive of the Noise Abatement Society. “It can disturb sleep, disrupt work and relaxation, and can cause high blood pressure and increased risk of heart disease.” It’s time to simmer down. Indeed, shutting up is not just good for our health, but a new wellbeing must-have. Our craving for silence is growing, with Google and social media searches for silent retreats skyrocketing.

Sarah Anderson, author of The Lost Art of Silence, says: “We all need silence. Noise is tiring and constant noise is exhausting. Silence is a break, and a rest, from stimuli.

“As the world gets noisier, we’re in danger of losing this precious, yet free, commodity. We need to reclaim silence as a part of our lives.”

And you don’t need to book into an expensive retreat to reap the benefits.

Sarah Bladen, author of Practical Zen for Health, Wealth and Mindfulness, says: “You can set up your own silent retreat at home for free. Even just a few hours will reap rewards.”

Here she shares how it’s done...

ALL QUIET NOW

Your 24 hours of peace and quiet awaits.

Step one: Avoid booking home deliveries on your chosen day.

Step two: Let others know your intentions so they don’t worry or try to contact you. Then turn off your phone along with as many appliances as you can.

Step three: Create a retreat space. Light a candle, gather books and a journal to note reflections.

Step four: Organise a structure for your day – you could begin with a silent meditation, a mindful walk, followed by silent stretching.

Step five: Cook mindfully, preparing your meals in a meditative way.

Step six: Eat slowly, appreciating your food without distractions.

Step seven: Practise simple meditation breathwork to calm your nervous system. Inhale for a count of five and exhale for a count of seven.