QUIETUDE

Although all forms are dynamic, and we all grow and transform, each of us is compelled to return to our root. Our root is quietude. - Lao Tsu

The health benefits of immersing oneself in quiet have long been acknowledged and extensively researched. Many have reported improved emotional well-being, mental clarity, and even the healing of illness and disease after prolonged time in quiet.

Most of us are surrounded by elements of sound in every waking (and even non-waking) moment of our day. Achieving quietude is no easy task. Yet there are ways to find oases of quiet, even if you live in a bustling city. Here are a few:

• Take a digital break. Even if for just an hour, turning off all electronic devices and allowing your nervous system to relax from the endless “online” feeling of being at the beck-and-call of pings, beeps, news reports, and even music.
• Quiet your mind. You don’t have to be a regular practitioner of meditation to tune in and gently invite a slow-down of your mind’s endless chatter. (Rest assured: even the Dalai Lama has a “monkey mind.” It’s part of the human condition.) As “noisy” thoughts surface, smile and let them go. And if sitting still is a challenge for you, engage in activity from a place of quietude: doing the dishes, folding laundry, watering houseplants.
• Listen to your body. Quietude enables us to deepen our experience of tuning into the subtle music of our own heartbeat, breath, and the pulses of life that course through our veins. Enjoy the quiet miracle of being alive. Here, now.
  
  

In the months ahead, we will launch all-new Crocu/CoreMindfulness programs online and LIVE retreats from our magical farm, Stone Hill Farm in Vermont, where quietude thrives.

It has been an extraordinary journey to this point, and the entire Core Team is so looking forward to the new adventure with all of you. Crocu is one of the most powerful tools for quieting the body/mind I have ever experienced, and have witnessed the same in thousands of others I’ve had the privilege of serving. I hope you will join us. In the meantime, make time in your day to enjoy some quietude. Your body, mind, heart, and soul will thank you.

Yours From The Core,
Shyla