The Silence Retreat is a great way to relax, take a break from technology, conversations and everyday life, reset your brain and focus. However, jumping straight into silent practice can be tricky—and mindful preparation can help you jump into the silence and get the most out of the experience.
Here are 8 easy ways to start the process:
start listening
On the way home or already at home – listen. Start by listening to what is in your immediate environment. Then spread your awareness throughout the room and then out into the street. Listen as far as you can. Focus on many different sounds at the same time, and then distinguish them one by one.
Determine the purpose of the trip without expectations
Before you go on a silence retreat, you should keep in mind the specific goals of your trip. Decide on them, but also allow your intentions to be soft and flexible. By not focusing on one thing, you will discover the possibility of expansion. One way to do this is to write down what you want to learn from the experience and then write it down. This will help you open up the energy and ignite it. It is liberation and acceptance.
Take some silent rides
When you’re driving, don’t turn on anything – no music, no podcasts, no phone calls. Try it for just a few minutes at first, and then increase the time.
Speak only when necessary
This is Gandhi’s approach: “Speak only if it improves the silence.”
Start stretching
During quiet retreats there is often a lot of sitting meditation. Make sure your body is ready to sit for long periods of time. And try stretching in silence – it’s a great way to tune in.
Review your diet
Most often, the food during the silence retreat is plant-based. To prepare for sitting or the difficulties that are likely to surface in silence, try to cut out something unhealthy from your diet for a few days, such as soda or dessert.
Start a diary
Even though some retreats don’t allow journaling, it’s a good practice to immerse yourself in self-exploration before you travel.
Try telepathic communication
Look into the eyes of others and communicate from the heart. This works with both plants and animals.