You know that feeling of a really uncomfortable pause?

Could you imagine a weekend of it?

Well, that's not what this silent meditation retreat I went on last week felt like.

Instead, it was one of the most comforting, enjoyable experiences I've had in a while.

Because our group of 15 strangers were expected to be silent, the pressures of initiating or keeping up a conversation went out the window.

It was incredibly freeing for me, who's always felt a need to engage with people, even when it didn't feel natural to, out of fear of being seen as rude or unfriendly.

Moving through yoga, meditation, meals, walks and usual daily activity without speaking to anyone allowed me to listen more closely to my inner voice.

When we came out of silence, a part of me actually wanted to stay in it, savor how soft and peaceful it felt. But, we all know that's not the "real" world.

So, when I came back home, I noticed myself carving out space for silence, whether with myself or others. Pushing myself to feel a little more trust and comfort in the quiet, and to let things more naturally unfold.

Here's my challenge for you...

Find a moment each day where you are intentionally silent (with no technology either!).

It could be while...

Taking a walk, waiting in line, cooking a meal, eating your meal, writing in a journal, talking with someone.

Let the pauses happen, and see what happens.

I left the silent retreat with clearer thoughts, deeper feelings and tons of fresh ideas for my own work with you all!

When you give yourself permission to be quiet, your intuition, your needs and your truest self get louder. And, you might more fully enjoy what's right around you.