The Power of Silence

In a world that values productivity and constant communication, silence is often overlooked, undervalued or misunderstood. But in hypnotherapy—and in the healing journey more broadly—silence isn’t empty. It’s full of possibility.

(Que's 'The Sound of Silence' by Simon & Garfunkel)

Let’s explore why silence matters, what neuroscience tells us about its effect on the brain, and how we use it to deepen your journey in sessions.

🧠 The Neuroscience of Silence

Studies have shown that two minutes of silence can be more relaxing for the brain than listening to soothing music. Silence allows the default mode network (DMN)—the brain system active during introspection—to engage. This is the same system we activate in hypnosis, where deep self-reflection and internal reorganization can occur.

Silence also:

• Lowers cortisol (your stress hormone)

• Increases GABA (a calming neurotransmitter)

• Allows for neuroplasticity—the ability to rewire thought patterns

In other words, silence helps you shift from reacting to reflecting. It’s a reset button for the nervous system.

🧘🏽‍♀️ Silence in Emotional Moments

When emotions run high—grief, anger, anxiety—many of us scramble to fill the space with words. But we don't need to- true healing often happens in the quiet moments.

Silence can offer:

• A regulated pause rather than a reactive response

• A moment to co-regulate with another person’s calm energy

• The space to feel, without being overwhelmed or talked over

This is not the “silent treatment”—which is a form of emotional withdrawal or punishment—but rather a loving, attuned presence without needing to fix or solve.

In our work together, I may pause when I can see that something lands deeply or when your subconscious begins to stir. These quiet moments are not gaps; they’re bridges.

🌒 Silence in Hypnotherapy

In our sessions, you may notice I pause after guiding you to a new scene or suggestion. This is intentional. These silences are doorways for you to:

• Drop deeper into the imagery

• Listen to your own inner voice

• Connect with forgotten memories or new insights

• Feel your body's response to the suggestion or memory

Just as seeds need dark, quiet soil to germinate, your subconscious needs silence to reorganize, release, and rewire. That’s why I never rush your experience. I trust your mind knows where to go—and that my pauses allow you to get there.

🌿 Try This: A Silent Reset

Take 3 minutes today to do nothing. No phone, no music, no journal. Just sit in stillness with your breath. Notice what thoughts rise. Then gently return to the silence.

What if silence isn’t something to avoid—but a healing space to return to?

With reverence for the quiet places within,

Julia Viola SokolCertified Clinical Hypnotherapist

P.S. If you're curious about how silence can help heal your mind, I'm hosting group hypnosis this coming Wednesday. Combining the power of hypnosis, a group, and silence can be truly transformative. You can join the group here.