Finding peace, reflection on Bali’s Silent Day
Published on: Sunday, March 17, 2024
By: Dr T Selva
THE Balinese Hindus possess a unique key to peace and happiness in life, unlike any other nation: observing 24 hours of silence.
The Hari Nyepi (Day of Silence) is a significant cultural and religious event celebrated yearly on the island of Gods for centuries.
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Nyepi marks the beginning of the Balinese New Year according to the Balinese Hindu calendar, and it is a day dedicated to self-reflection, meditation, and spiritual cleansing.
On March 11, I had the privilege of participating in this remarkable event for the fifth time.
It entailed the close of all road, air, and sea transportation, with the over 4.4 million population, including visitors, remaining indoors from 6am on Monday to 6am on Tuesday.
This complete and profound stillness and muteness was observed to convince evil spirits that Bali was deserted, prompting them to depart the island undisturbed for another year.
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As dawn broke over the lush expanse of Bali, I found myself engulfed in a reflective and extraordinary experience – the Silent Day.
This wasn’t just any ordinary day; it was a unique occasion on which the entire island stopped in a collective embrace of silence and introspection.
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As I awoke on that meaningful cloudy and drizzling morning, an uncommon serenity blanketed the air, infusing every island corner with a peaceful calmness.
The bustling streets, typically alive with activity, lay soundless, devoid of the usual commotion of honking horns and bustling crowds.
It was as though Bali itself had pressed pause on life’s relentless rhythm, allowing nature’s inhabitants, like squirrels and birds, to roam freely.
With reverence, I welcomed the quietness, recognising the great significance of this day in Balinese Hindu culture.
For me, it wasn’t merely about refraining from speech; it was an opportunity for inner reflection, a chance to quiet the mind and cleanse the soul.
The sunset emerged with a healing and tranquil aura, almost as if conveying gratitude for the observance of silence in Bali. (Pic: T Selva)
Throughout the day, I remained in solitude, nourishing myself with minimal sustenance and dedicating my time to reading and writing amidst the tranquil confines of my hotel in Kuta.
Immersed in the island’s serene landscapes, I felt a deep connection to the world around me, as if nature whispered secrets of wisdom into my receptive heart.
As the day neared its end and darkness cloaked the island, I pondered the influence of Silent Day on me.
Amidst the calm, I discovered a thoughtful sense of tranquillity and lucidity previously unknown.
The day following the Silent Day, the sunset emerged with a healing and tranquil aura, almost as if conveying gratitude for the observance of silence.
As I surrendered to sleep, I realised this day would forever linger in my memory, serving as a poignant reminder of silence’s insightful ability to rejuvenate the soul and ignite the spirit.
Benefits of embracing silence
Inner peace and tranquillity: Silence allows individuals to calm their minds, reduce mental chatter, and attain inner peace. It provides an opportunity for self-reflection, introspection, and spiritual growth.
Improved concentration and focus: Silence provides a conducive environment for engagement and enhances cognitive abilities. It helps people to focus better on tasks, study, and problem-solving.
Enhanced communication: Practicing silence can improve communication skills by encouraging active listening. It fosters a deeper understanding of others’ perspectives and promotes empathy and compassion.
Stress reduction and relaxation: Silence is a natural stress reliever that lowers cortisol levels and promotes peace. It can help alleviate anxiety, tension, and nervousness, leading to improved overall well-being.
Creativity and problem-solving: Silence stimulates creativity by allowing the mind to wander freely and make new connections. It provides space for innovative thinking, brainstorming, and solving complex problems.
Physical health benefits: Silence has been linked to various physical health benefits, including lower blood pressure, improved digestion, and better sleep quality. It can also boost the immune system and reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.
Increased self-awareness: Silence encourages individuals to become more aware of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. It facilitates self-discovery and personal growth by fostering mindfulness and self-acceptance.
Cultivation of mindfulness: Silence is integral to mindfulness, which involves paying attention to the present moment without judgement. It helps people become more aware of their surroundings and appreciate the beauty of life.
Connection with nature: Silence allows individuals to connect with nature and appreciate its beauty and serenity. Spending time in natural surroundings can calm the mind and promote feelings of awe and wonder.
Spiritual growth, social harmony and understanding: Many spiritual traditions emphasise the importance of silence for spiritual growth and enlightenment.
Silence can promote peace and understanding in social interactions by encouraging patience, tolerance, and respect for others’ viewpoints. It fosters deeper connections and stronger relationships within communities.
Overall, observing silence is not just about abstaining from speaking; it is a practice that can enrich every aspect of life and contribute to the well-being of individuals and society.
Award-winning writer Dr T. Selva is the author of the bestseller books Vasthu Sastra Guide and Secrets of Happy Living. To get a copy, WhatsApp 019-2728464. He can be reached at [email protected]. Facebook: Vasthu Sastra
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