Riddle #11 – What Disappears?

And while you’re here, check out these 10 facts about Silence…

Origins of the Word: The term “silence” comes from the Latin word “silentium,” which means the state of being silent or quiet.

Physiological Effects: Prolonged exposure to silence can lower blood pressure, reduce heart rate, and decrease levels of stress hormones in the blood, promoting relaxation and focus.

Silence in Nature: The quietest place on Earth is often considered to be the anechoic chamber at Orfield Laboratories in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where the ambient noise level can get as low as -9.4 decibels.

Brain Activity: Silence has been shown to stimulate the growth of new brain cells, particularly in the hippocampus, which is involved in memory, emotion, and learning.

Silent Retreats: There’s a form of retreat called a “silent retreat,” where individuals refrain from speaking, sometimes for days or weeks, to encourage introspection, spiritual growth, and deep relaxation.

World Record: The longest time a person has voluntarily gone without talking is more than 17 years. This was done by John Francis, who took a vow of silence in 1973 to protest environmental degradation and did not speak until 1990.

2-Minute Silence: Many countries observe two minutes of silence on Remembrance Day (or similar holidays) to honor the soldiers who lost their lives in wars.

Therapeutic Silence: In psychology and counseling, therapeutic silence can be employed as a technique. It can give clients a chance to reflect on what they’ve said, process their emotions, and come to their own conclusions.

Silence in Music: Even in music, silence plays an essential role. Rests or pauses allow for breath, reflection, and anticipation, contributing significantly to the rhythm and mood of a piece.

Religious Significance: Many religions and spiritual practices emphasize the importance of silence. For instance, in Christianity, there’s the practice of “silent prayer” or “centering prayer.” Buddhism also values silence for meditation, and Quaker meetings often involve long periods of silence.