There’s a space where silence speaks louder than words, where the absence of sound becomes a symphony of peace. This is the essence of Mouna, a retreat not merely for the body but for the mind and soul.
In our fast paced worlds we are surrounded by noise—voices, machines, the constant hum of modern existence. Yet, through Mouna, a different kind of quiet prevails. Here, the silence is not empty but full, offering a profound experience where one can truly listen to themselves.
THE PRACTICE OF SILENCE IS NOT NEW
The practice of silence is not new; it has been revered in various cultures for centuries. There’s a return to something primal, something essential. Mouna is a Sanskrit word that translates to silence. This practice, rooted in ancient yogic traditions, is designed to help individuals disconnect from external distractions and connect with their inner self. Mouna encourages mindfulness and self-awareness, allowing the practitioner to observe thoughts without attachment or judgement. Let us take you on a journey through the stages of silence.
ONE: PREPARATION
Before beginning your practice, find a quiet space where you won't be disturbed. Sit comfortably, either on the floor or in a bathhouse, with your back straight and your hands resting on your knees. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths to centre yourself. This is the first step —creating a physical space that reflects the inner silence you seek.
TWO: OBSERVATION
Next, focus on external sounds. Let the atmosphere envelop you, encouraging a gradual release from the tension of the outside world. The transition from noise to quiet is subtle, almost imperceptible, but it’s in this shift that the magic happens. Time at Mouna stretches out, each moment offering an opportunity to connect with your inner self, to explore the thoughts and feelings that often go unnoticed. By doing this, you begin to dissociate from external distractions, preparing your mind for the next stage.
THREE: SHIFTING
Once you have become accustomed to observing external sounds, the next step in Mouna is to turn your focus inward. Observe your thoughts and emotions as they arise. The key is to observe without attachment or judgement. Simply notice your thoughts and then let them go. You will develop sense of detachment, reducing the power that negative thoughts and emotions have over you. It’s here that one can delve deep into their own consciousness, discovering layers of thought and feeling that are often buried under the din of everyday life.
FOUR: RELEASING
In this next stage of Mouna Meditation, you take control of your thoughts. Instead of passively observing, you actively create thoughts and then consciously let them go. This process helps you understand the transient nature of thoughts, reinforcing the idea that you are not your thoughts. The silence doesn’t just quiet the mind; it calms the body, too. The heart rate slows, the muscles relax, and a sense of profound peace begins to take hold. Let the healing process do it's work.
FIVE: DEEPENING
As you become more comfortable with Mouna, you can deepen your practice by extending the duration of each stage. Spend more time in each phase, allowing yourself to explore the silence within. It is not about reaching a particular goal but about the journey of self-discovery. By consistently practising Mouna Meditation, you will find that your mind becomes quieter, and you gain greater control over your thoughts and emotions.
SIX: LIVING
The ultimate goal of Mouna is to carry the silence into your daily life. Silence is more than a pause between sounds; it is a state of being. In today's world, we are constantly bombarded with noise, whether it's from the outside world or our own thoughts. This continuous noise can lead to stress, anxiety, and a sense of overwhelm. Mouna offers a respite from this noise, allowing you to find clarity and calmness. By practising regularly, you can learn to control your mind's tendency to wander and bring your focus back to the present moment.
QUIET TIME AT CAPYBARA
At Capybara Bathhouse, we recognise the importance of solitude. While our bathhouse is a communal space, we believe that personal intimacy should never be sacrificed. We have dedicated Weekend Mornings Quiet Time sessions for those who wish to practise Mouna in a tranquil environment. To step away from the rush, to pause, to breathe.
During these sessions, conversation is not allowed, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the practice of Mouna. Whether you are soaking in our warm baths or enjoying a moment of stillness in our relaxation areas, the silence will support your journey inward. The quiet here is not something to be filled, but something to be experienced, savoured.
As you leave, the world outside may seem louder, more chaotic, but within you, there’s a newfound calm, a silence that stays with you, reminding you of the quiet time you can always return to. Whether practised at home or during a visit to Capybara Bathhouse, Mouna helps you cultivate a quiet mind, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life. Remember, silence is not just the absence of sound—it is a powerful practice that can transform your life.
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