The Hidden Benefits of Silence

“Silence is a source of great strength.” – Lao Tzu While some people dislike a silent environment, equating it with being alone and lonely, others look forward to spending time with just their thoughts, seeking silence with eagerness, as if anticipating a gift. Indeed, silence offers profound benefits, many of which we aren’t even aware of. Silence is good for overall physical health and well-being. Besides giving our ears a break, silence has been shown to offer significant health advantages that boost overall well-being. From a physiological standpoint, silence helps: Lower blood pressure, which can help prevent heart attack. Boost the body’s immune system. Benefit brain chemistry by growing new cells. A 2013 study found that two hours of silence could create new cells in the hippocampus region, a brain area linked to learning, remembering, and emotions. Decrease stress by lowering blood cortisol levels and adrenaline. Furthermore, according to a 2006 study in Heart, two minutes of silence relieves tension in the body and brain and is more relaxing than listening to music. This was attributed to changes in blood pressure and blood circulation in the brain. Promote good hormone regulation and the interaction of bodily hormone-relate systems. Prevent plaque formation in arteries. Lending credence to these observations, science now recognizes the harmful effects of noise pollution on human health and cognition. Silence promotes psychological and emotional benefit...
Source: World of Psychology - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Creativity General Happiness Health-related Holiday Coping Inspiration & Hope Mental Health and Wellness Mindfulness Motivation and Inspiration Relationships Research Self-Help Defensiveness Inner Strength Silence Source Type: blogs