This post is all about sitting quietly.
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I used to think silence was boring and unproductive. How wrong was I! Over time, I have realised that quiet sitting isn’t about doing nothing at all. It’s about making space for clarity, healing and perspective.
In this post, I’ll share how quiet sitting has transformed my mind and emotions. It has allowed me a space to breathe, relax and process information to make better choices and get a better perspective on almost everything!
1. What is Quiet Sitting?
Quiet sitting is the practice of sitting still in silence, without distractions, allowing your thoughts to flow naturally. It isn’t like meditation, there’s no goal—you’re not trying to control your breath or clear your mind. You are just trying to be present.
Mindful silence is an accessible and cost-free communication tool, yet it often remains undervalued and underutilized in health care.
national library of medicine
It’s about simply being present with your thoughts (scary for some, I know)! Raving thoughts, overwhelming thoughts, fear…who wants to sit quietly with those.
Wouldn’t it be better just to keep soldering on and forget about your thoughts altogether? Actually no, and here is why…
When you ignore your thoughts, they don’t disappear, they just build up quietly in the background until they hit you like a wave when you least expect it. And when that stress hangs around, your body feels it, your heart might beat faster, your tummy can feel off, your muscles stay tight, and you might struggle to sleep because your brain still thinks there’s something wrong.
2. The Science Behind Quiet Sitting
Recent studies are showing that taking time for silence restores the nervous system, helps sustain energy, and conditions our minds to be more adaptive and responsive to the complex environments in which so many of us now live, work, and lead.
harvard business review
Moments of silence:
- Strengthen the prefrontal cortex, improving emotional regulation.
- Enhance memory retention and problem-solving skills.
- Reduce cortisol levels, lowering stress and anxiety.
3. How Quiet Sitting Transforms Mental Clarity
Every time I practice quiet sitting, I notice 3 powerful shifts:
Mental decluttering – My thoughts feel more organised without outside noise.
Problem-solving – I often find solutions to problems I wasn’t actively thinking about.
Emotional reset – I process emotions instead of pushing them away.
Listen to the silence. It has much to say.
RUMI
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, quiet sitting can help you reset your mind and regain control.
4. How to Start Quiet Sitting
Learning to sit in stillness and self-reflect is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves and our kids.
Cleveland Clinic. August 7, 2020.
Choose a Quiet Space
Find a distraction-free zone—a quiet room, a park, or even your car.
Set a Timer
Start with just 2–5 minutes and gradually increase as you get comfortable.
Sit Comfortably
There’s no right way—sit cross-legged, in a chair, or however you feel at ease.
Observe Your Thoughts (Without Judgement)
Let your thoughts come and go naturally—there’s no need to force stillness.
Reflect on Your Experience
Afterward, ask yourself:
Do I feel more calm?
Did any new insights come up?
Am I feeling less overwhelmed?
The key is consistency—the more you practice, the better you will feel.
5. Common Questions About Quiet Sitting
What is Silent Sitting?
Silent sitting is a bit like mindfulness. It can include things like deep breathing or focusing on your body. Quiet sitting is more relaxed. You just sit and notice whatever comes up, without following any steps.
When we sit still, our bodies naturally begin to relax. We may not realize it, but the simple act of sitting down can help to reduce stress levels and promote feelings of calm.
medium.com
6. My Personal Experience with Sitting Quietly
At first, sitting in silence felt unnatural—I kept reaching for my phone or thinking about my to-do list. But the more I committed to the practice, the more I noticed:
- I felt lighter after each session.
- I was less reactive to stress.
- I gained mental clarity without forcing it.
Now, quiet sitting is my mental reset button. I rely on it to process emotions and give my mind space to breathe.
7. Why You Should Try Quiet Sitting Today
If you often feel mentally exhausted, overwhelmed, or stuck in overthinking, quiet sitting might be exactly what you need.
- It’s free and requires no experience.
- It naturally reduces stress and anxiety.
- It can rewire your brain for resilience and clarity.
Give it a try today—and let me know how it changes your mindset.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Take the Next Step for Your Mental Well-Being
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This post was all about sitting quietly.