The Power of Silence

Meditation is when you listen to God

Let's incorporate the power of silence into our shamanic circles. Make room for silence to enter between "rounds" of the circle so that deeper thoughts and feelings can surface as the group proceeds. Shamanic circles revolve around rounds. These rounds usually evolve from participant concerns, issues or healing requests. Rounds of dialogue involve passing a symbolic talking piece (e.g., a stick, feather or stone) from person to person in a circle. If one does not feel moved to speak, they may pass the talking piece on or hold it in silence. Other rounds may involve sessions of group chanting, drumming or journeying.

Between each round of the circle, allow time for reflection or meditation, so that inner truth can emerge. When there is silence, there is time for deep introspection and to allow the true self to speak. Silence is the source of everything; the gateway to inner knowing. Silence creates the resonance of contemplation, insight, and direct communication with the source. When we create sacred space and sit in silence together, we can better feel our soul connections. Sacred space and silence go hand in hand. They both expand our capacity for listening and speaking from the heart.

There is likely to be some uneasiness the first time your shamanic circle sits in silence for more than thirty seconds. It takes practice to get acquainted with the power of silence. While some people in the group might choose to go into a meditative state, others may struggle with the sense that "nothing is happening."

To experience the power of silence requires the ability to surrender to the silent pulse within. Every living thing has a unique song, a pulsing rhythm that belongs only to it. Within the heart of each of us, there exists a silent pulse of perfect rhythm, which connects us to the totality of a dynamic, interrelated universe. This silent pulse is ever-present within each of us, but our awareness is rarely in sync with it. Eventually, sitting together in silence will produce a sense of connectedness and attunement. Needless to say, it will take time before harmony is attained and everyone feels in sync.