This year we’ve reviewed quite a few matters and actions that contribute to an emotionally balanced life. Now let’s start putting it all together. Many of my patients report that, for them, the most difficult aspects of creating an emotional balance is learning to be still enough to even engage in self-reflection and mindful practices. In his book Silence: The Power of Quiet in a World Full of Noise, Thích Nhất Hạnh details how to do just that.

As described by the editor, “One of the world’s most beloved teachers and Zen masters shares a profound, concise, and practical guide to understanding and developing our most powerful inner resource—silence—to help us find happiness, purpose, and peace.

We spend a lot of our lives searching for happiness, running from one thing to another, worrying about the past and being anxious about the future. All the while the world around us is overflowing with the wonder and contentment we seek. This beauty calls to us every day, yet we rarely are in the position to listen. If we don’t have silence in ourselves, if our minds and our bodies are full of noise, we can’t hear beauty’s call.

The gift of silence doesn’t require hours upon hours of solitary meditation or an existing practice of any kind. With mindfulness comes the stillness we need to come home to ourselves and discover who we are and what we truly want.

Combining powerful stories, timeless wisdom, and simple mindfulness techniques, Thích Nhất Hạnh shows us that silence is at the heart of the happiness we seek.”

If you, too, are finding this difficult, perhaps this book is the tool you need to master this.

Disclaimer: This blog is not designed to diagnose, treat, or prevent illnesses or trauma, and Dr. Emick is not responsible for your use of this educational material or its consequences. Furthermore, reading this blog does not create a doctor-patient relationship. The information contained within this blog is not intended to dictate what constitutes reasonable, appropriate, or best care for any given physical or behavioral health issue, nor does it take into account the unique circumstances that define the health issues of the reader. If you have questions about the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of a condition or illness, you should consult your personal health care professional. As always, consult with your personal health care professional before beginning or changing any fitness or nutrition program to make sure that it is appropriate for your needs. Dr. Emick reserves the right to modify her positions on a subject based upon new research or data as it presents.