The Power of Stillness
As a therapist, I've learned most of my clients have a hard time knowing what it looks like to be still.
In our modern lives, where every moment seems to be filled with noise and activity, the concept of stillness can feel like a distant dream. We are so accustomed to hurry, hustle and hours of scrolling. Yet, amidst the chaos, there lies immense power in embracing moments of tranquility and silence. The scripture "Be still and know that I am God" encapsulates the essence of stillness beautifully. It reminds us of the importance of quieting our minds and spirits (emotional regulation), of allowing ourselves to simply be present in the moment (mindfulness). It also lets us know that we can be still in our opinion about who God is, radically accepting His plan for this season in our lives; there is rest in that!
Stillness is a deliberate choice to cultivate inner peace and mindfulness. Taking moments to pause, to breathe, and to quiet the incessant chatter of our minds can be transformative. A few of these benefits include encountering clarity, reducing stress & anxiety and connecting to something greater than ourselves.
When we are still, clarity comes in and allows us to discern what truly matters amidst the distractions of daily life, helping us to prioritize our time and energy accordingly. Constant stimulation can cause feelings of overwhelm and exhaustion, therefore intentionally carving out moments of stillness can soothe our nervous systems, reduce stress hormones, and cultivate a sense of mental resilience. Finally, in those still moments we create an atmosphere that fosters a deeper connection to ourselves, opening us up to more effectively communicate with our creator because He truly knows what we presently need to nourish our souls. He can be heard in that still small voice; yet how can we hear Him if we never get still enough.
Written by Celina Noble, MSW, APC, NCC