‘Cheerful mind’ results in happy living. ‘Graceful mind’ avoids negative emotions. Positive emotions can be developed avoiding negative emotions if the thoughts ‘Me’ and ‘Mine’ can be avoided.

Next in the line for mind development is mownam i.e. silence. How could silence be called a penance? Is not ‘talking your way’ a great gift and trait for a leader?

Silence here is given as a symbol of multiple things - Listening, Self-introspection, etc.

"Silence is a true friend that never betrays" - Confucius

"Learn to get in touch with the silence within yourself, and know that everything in life has purpose. There are no mistakes, no coincidences, all events are blessings given to us to learn from" - Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

True motivation and great inspiration emanate from a place deep within us. That place is not touched by the noise, and we can only connect with that level of inspiration and creativity if we take time to step back and become an observer of our surroundings and the activity going on in it. There is great power in silence. Explore it.

It gives us an opportunity to reflect and respond effectively. In our ever-busy world of cellphones, social media, and endless chatter, it is critical for our creativity to find an oasis of calm for contemplation and the exploration of ideas. If we don’t allow ourselves space to just be contemplative and make decisions with clarity and consideration, we will just continue the madness of regurgitating the same old stories and ideas. We need room for silent reflection and space for innovation. If we don’t allow ourselves such places of quiet, we won’t allow our muse room to share something new with us.

“Silence is the sleep that nourishes wisdom.” - Francis Bacon

In fact, there is a ‘cause and effect’ relationship between silence and ‘gracefulness of mind’. That probably is the reason for Lord Krishna placing Silence next to Gracefulness in the order. Develop the habit of daily silent introspection and that will eventually help in eliminating all negative emotions and enhance positive emotions. Try it out from today and you will see the results yourself.

Silence is important for our health and well-being and not just mental health. 

Silence stimulates brain growth. Two hours of solitude and silence every day could potentially rejuvenate your brain. In a 2013 study, scientists exposed mice to three types of sound, including baby mouse calls. Scientists found that two hours of silence per day prompted greater healthy brain cell growth in the hippocampus – an area of the brain responsible for memory formation, learning, motivation and regulation of emotional responses.

Silence Improves sleep and fights insomnia. Silence improves memory. Silence relieves stress. Silence improves creativity.

How can you embrace silence in your life? What can you do to find solitude and instil it into your daily practice? Some tips below:

Walk in Nature

Take a walk in nature for some peace and solitude. Find a park, a walking trail, or go to the woods or the beach to enjoy some time alone, and take in the beautiful sounds of nature, which can help you relax.

Yoga and Meditation

Meditation does not have to be complicated. All you need is five to ten minutes to sit in silence and focus on your breath, gently let go of any thoughts from your awareness.

Sacred Pauses

Sacred pauses are mini-meditations you take during the day when you are involved in a goal-oriented task. Take a break from what you are doing and sit comfortably with your eyes closed. Take a few deep breaths and with each breath let go of any thought or worries and let your body relax. You can do this many times a day to give your mind and body a break from noise and stressful thoughts.

Stay in Bed an Extra Five Minutes in the Morning

Wake up early to enjoy the quiet and solitude before the day begins. Bask in the silence, with no particular thoughts as you awaken slowly to the day. These precious moments can set the mood for the rest of the day and give you the boost you need to carry on with a peaceful vibe.

Digital Detox

Set a day, perhaps on the weekend, to stay away from your digital devices. It is not easy and I am not able to do this honestly but I am sure this will help.