Silence, Yoga Nidra, and why stillness is profoundly creative

Silence is often misunderstood as absence. In Yoga and Tantra, silence is understood as presence.

Neuroscience today is beginning to describe, in language we can relate to, what Indic traditions have known for eons: deep silence is regenerative.

Research shows that sustained silence supports the birth of new brain cells, particularly in the hippocampus, the center responsible for memory, learning, and emotional regulation.

While external noise reduction may not always be within our control, how we relate to silence most certainly is.

At Shrimath Yoga, this inner orientation is introduced through the Tantra practice of Antar Mouna (Inner Silence), along with Yoga Nidra.

What follows is an invitation to reflect on what sustained silence actually does to the nervous system.

How silence reorganises the brain and nervous system

Reduces cognitive load

Constant stimulation keeps the brain externally oriented. Silence withdraws this demand, freeing energy for internal restoration and integration.

Activates repair mechanisms

With fewer sensory inputs, the brain naturally shifts into maintenance mode. Synapses strengthen, and new neural pathways are supported.

Promotes neurogenesis

Research suggests that silence, even more than structured sound, supports the birth and maturation of new neurons in the hippocampus. Yoga Nidra prepares the practitioner to be comfortable with silence rather than resist it.

Engages the Default Mode Network (DeMoN)

The Default Mode Network comes online during deep rest and quiet. It supports memory consolidation, emotional regulation, and insight.

When overstimulated, this same network becomes restless and disruptive. Silence restores its intelligence.

Reduces stress hormones

Lower cortisol levels create a biological environment where growth and healing can actually occur.Regular practice of Antar Mouna and Yoga Nidra gently accesses Alpha and Theta brain states associated with restoration and clarity.

Introduces eustress

Deep silence is not dull. It is alert stillness. A positive form of stress that sharpens awareness without overwhelming the system.

This is why silence, in Yoga Nidra, is not an absence of experience.

It is the field in which reorganization happens.

An invitation

The monthly weekend Yoga Nidra immersions at Shrimath Yoga have supported innumerable leaders, coaches, and seekers in learning how to rest deeply, regulate the nervous system, and relate to silence as a living intelligence.

Silence, when approached consciously, is not something to escape into.

It is something to learn how to stay with.

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