Welcoming You to The Practice of Silence | A Gentle Introduction to Somatic Stillness

This opening session welcomes you into The Practice of Silence, inviting you to explore stillness not as inactivity, but as a way of being. Elle introduces the meaning of “somatic” and why engaging the body is essential for deep rest and presence with yourself, others, and God. You’ll be guided through a grounding exercise—feet on the floor, hands on your knees, breath awareness—to help anchor you in the present moment. These practices become the foundation for moving from 30 seconds of quiet to an hour or more, cultivating an embodied life of rest and stillness.

Beginner Tips for Somatic Practice:

• Start Small: Even 30 seconds of noticing your breath can begin to shift your awareness.

• Ground Physically: Place your feet flat on the floor and your hands gently on your knees.

• Lift & Open: Roll your shoulders back and lift through the crown of your head to invite presence.

• Notice Sensations: Pay attention to breath movement, temperature, textures, or points of contact.

• Acknowledge Numbness: If you feel nothing, that’s okay—awareness of numbness is still awareness.

• Breathe Intentionally: Use the phrase, “Breathing in, I know I’m breathing in… breathing out, I know I’m breathing out.”

• Return Often: Come back to this practice before longer moments of silence to prepare body and mind.