On holidays we have enjoyed the stillness of the hills and mountains. In the seat of meditation, we are still and silent. When in deep thought, we find ourselves sitting still and contemplating. Stillness resonates with us.

There is a deep body-mind connection. When we are still, our mind quietens. A quiet mind is a calm, clear mind, capable of deeper reflection and insights. It is very difficult to see the bottom of the lake in gushing water. The still waters reveal its depth. It is the same with our mind. A still mind reveals the depth within.

Stillness gives us clarity. It brings to our awareness thoughts and feelings we are influenced by, but unaware of. We get to know ourselves better, helping us become a better person.

It gives us perspective. In prosperity a clear mind keeps us grounded and in a struggle, a clear mind finds the way forward. We think we are getting tossed up and down with the highs and lows of life. We are actually getting tossed up and down by our excited and agitated mind refusing to be still.

It connects us. The Consciousness within is a treasure waiting to be discovered, through still, silent reflection. And this journey unleashes love and joy, which becomes our default nature.

It energises us. When we connect within, we recharge ourselves to face the challenges and opportunities of the world. 20 minutes of silence can positively impact the remaining 1420 minutes in the day.

It does not mean we must drop our activities and responsibilities to sit still all day. On the contrary, our call is for dynamic action, operating from the still centre within. Just as the wheel is constantly in motion around the changeless, unmoving centre, we too need to find the centre of stillness within, around which our world revolves.

In the stillness of the night, we can hear the smallest sound clearly. In our time of stillness and silence, we will be able to hear the smallest and yet most powerful sound clearly. The call and guidance of our inner voice. Such is the power of stillness.

(Picture – Mauritius)