5 Health Benefits Of Silence For Your Mind And Body

Just 2 hours of silence boosts the production of brain cells. This strengthens the hippocampus and improves your short- and long-term memory while lowering the risk for dementia. Even 2 minutes of silence can lower your heart rate and blood pressure. And 2 minutes of silence has more stress-lowering effect than soothing music. Silence through meditation can even help insomniacs relax and sleep better.

In a world of smartphones and technology, silence is hard to come by. Our days are full of notifications, television, and everything in between. Many people even prefer background noise.

For some, quietness feels strange. While it might feel weird, it can actually help your health. Here are 5 ways silence can benefit your mind and body.

1. Brain Cell Growth

Lectures, movies, and conversations are great tools for mental stimulation. But did you know that silence can also help?

According to a 2013 study in Brain Structure & Function, at least 2 hours of quietness increases the production of brain cells. It’s the brain’s way of preparing for upcoming mental challenges. Silence actually stresses out the brain – in a good way.1

2. Better Memory

As your brain makes more cells, your hippocampus will get stronger. This is the part of the brain that’s responsible for both short- and long-term memory. Spatial memory, such as navigation, is also controlled by the hippocampus. Finding your car keys depends on it!

Additionally, it’ll decrease your risk of dementia, which is caused by brain cell damage. The growth of new cells will keep it at bay.2

To strengthen your brain, embrace periods of silence. Sit in a quiet space when you’re trying to learn something new. The lack of noise will actually increase your brain function and help you focus.3

3. Heart Protection

Silence is amazing for the heart. A 2-minute pause can reduce your blood pressure and heart rate, which are both risk factors for heart disease. Even your blood circulation will improve.

It’s better than meditative music. Certain tunes can help heart rate, but they won’t have a major impact on blood pressure and respiration. Quietness, however, will improve all of these.4

4. Stress Relief And Relaxation

Stressed out? Bask in a moment of silence. A 2-minute pause will promote calmness, relaxation, and inner peace. For a greater effect, extend the pause to 5 minutes.

Often, people relax by listening to soothing music, like jazz or classical. Quietness actually has a greater effect than meditative melodies. This is caused by the sudden release of attention, which leaves a person in a relaxed state.5

So, the next time you’re feeling tense, find a quiet room. A few minutes of silence will do wonders.

5. Better Sleep (Especially For Insomniacs)

Silence is crucial for healthy sleep. Otherwise, you won’t be able to get the best rest possible.6 Avoid extra noise, like music and television, to create a quiet sleeping environment.

Achieving silence through meditation can treat insomnia. According to a study in JAMA Internal Medicine, it enhances the relaxation response and improves mood. Meditative exercises are also linked to a calmer nervous system. Together, all of these benefits encourage healthier rest.

You’ll be on the top of your game throughout the day. Mental alertness, concentration, and focus are just some of the benefits of quietness.7

Take time to savor the silence. If you live in a big city, consider soundproofing your walls. Going to meditation classes and hiking trips will also help you escape the noise.