THE PRACTICE OF SILENCE & HOW WE BRING IT INTO OUR RETREATS & TRAININGS

One thing we decided to implement into our retreats and trainings already from the beginning, is something called “silent morning,” or mauna in Sanskrit.

A morning of no interaction.

Neither with a human nor a device.

So practically, this means that from the time everyone wakes up in the morning, all through getting ready for the first yoga class, having a cup of tea, entering the yoga shala and grabbing their props, even all through the practice, we encourage complete silence.

When we introduce this concept to people as they come to sit down for our welcome gathering on the first day we can tell this is a big deal for most of them by the look on their faces.

No wonder.

For most of us, unconsciously or consciously, the first thing we do in the morning is interact.

Whether that be chatting to a family member, playing with a pet, checking the news, listening to music or (most common of all!) scrolling on our phones.

So it’s no surprise that for many people, it’s challenging.

A bit weird even.

To walk past people, have a cup of tea opposite someone without saying a word. 

To enter the shala and get ready for practice without chatting to the person next to you.

Interestingly enough, the whole idea of a silent morning, and having that ritual as part of the daily routine throughout the week, is one of the things people enjoy most.

To have that quiet space to reflect in the morning.

To hear the inner voice.

The breath.

Notice how one feels.

Hence, this quote is a potent reminder of the power of silence.

If you long for a morning of silence, time away from the noise, a chance to truly disconnect - come experience it with us at a retreat.