The students arriving to my Chakra class last night noticed this new sign upon entering the studio:
The Buddhist practice of silence or “Mouna” means “measurement,” specifically the measurement of words. Practicing noble silence means not speaking any unnecessary words. In the studio, we will practice communicating only when it is necessary and we will do so in a hushed tone.
Noble silence should not be viewed as a restriction, but rather an opportunity. We are given the opportunity NOT to talk. Our daily lives are often filled with talk; small talk with acquaintances, chit-chat at lunch, gossip in the office, having to smile and say “how are you?” to everyone we come across, meetings and phone calls… it never ends. What noble silence offers us is a break from the mask that we must wear in society day in and day out so that we can focus inward during our brief but sacred time in practice. The yoga studio is a container for cultivating the freedom that choosing silence can give. You are under no obligation to smile, to pretend to be cheerful, to say you are doing great, or to answer questions. You are under no obligation to communicate at all.
People often use small talk as a way to fill space, pass time, or cover up feelings of nervousness or awkwardness. Small talk shields us from experiencing or dealing with emotions, and in the yoga studio, this prevents us from doing the inner work. When you arrive at the studio, you are entering into an hour of contemplation, where you may be challenged by internal emotions that bubble to the surface. Making jokes, giggling, calling attention to ourselves, or goofing when these challenges arise is a defense mechanism. Sometimes we goof when we are emotional in order to mask the uncomfortable feelings. Noble silence allows us to deal with emotions and physical challenges with dignity in a space where others are respectful of the work you are doing and are focused on their own practice. Emotional healing happens here, where you can hear your inner voice. Silence is essential for deep transformation.
Noble silence is also a sign of respect for others. Some students need five quiet minutes on their mat before class, in order to deal with anxiety, to drop the stresses of the day, to perform personal rituals, steady their breath, etc. Approaching someone before class to discuss a work issue, ask about weekend plans, or make jokes with them takes away their ability to perform the quiet ritual they may have needed in order to have a good class. It is similar after class; consider that some students want to carry the peaceful energy they created during practice with them as they leave, and their hold on those feelings may be tenuous enough to be disturbed by small talk as they gather their belongings. The beauty of noble silence is that if you are one who prefers a bit of quiet to help you maintain balance before or after class, noble silence allows for you to set those boundaries free from guilt or judgement; it gives you permission NOT to respond to small talk. We love and trust one another, so we can respect each other's boundaries and do not feel offended or insulted by them.
For practical reasons, noble silence protects us from physical injury. Chatter, laughter, and goofing tends to increase when we are challenging ourselves with a new or difficult pose, as people mask their embarrassment with humor. However, when this noise distracts us from the teacher’s cues or from our concentration on our own bodies and form, we put ourselves at risk of injury. It is important that we focus on the breath and the physical sensations of the body as we challenge ourselves in new asanas. Noble silence protects our bodies.
After many years of attending week-log retreats that were held within the container of noble silence, I can testify to its power. Some of the most loving, trusting, and powerful friendships I have ever formed occurred without a single word uttered. I have had tearful goodbyes with women with whom I had never even exchanged names. Practicing next to someone in noble silence forms lasting bonds. It takes a certain amount of vulnerability and courage to hold space for yourself with others, and noble silence is the conduit for this. Not speaking out loud does not prevent you from experiencing camaraderie in the yoga studio; in fact, you may find that it only increases your level of love and trust in your fellow practitioners.
In short, noble silence is not a punishment, but a gift. In a world full of constant noise, spending one hour in silence has become a delicious privilege, allowing you to investigate your true nature and connect with your divine self. Take advantage of this opportunity in the Common Yoga studio.
~Namaste
Love love love