10 Ways to Give Yourself Some Quiet Time

Counting may not seem like silence, but if you're counting, you're only focusing on the numbers and nothing else. Certainly you could count forward, but counting backward requires greater concentration and decreases the likelihood that you will think of anything else.

Not only will the walk give you space to clear your mind, it will also help stretch your muscles. And if your walk is outside, you'll get some fresh air (your lungs will appreciate that) and some Vitamin D (the rest of your body will appreciate that.)

Clear some space in your mind, by putting your thoughts on paper. Journaling can capture your gratitude, your fears, your tasks, your needs . . . anything that you need to remember (or in some cases, forget.)

Reading is fundamental . . . and also fun. Nothing against electronic reading devices, but I suggest grabbing an old fashioned book with pages you can turn. There's a different level of escape involved and besides, you may be tempted to return to regular life if you're reading on your phone or tablet.

In line with the previous suggestion, this tip for increased quiet requires you to power off devices that connect you to the outside world. I recommend at least 30 minutes a day. Admittedly, this one is quite difficult for me, too. However, the earth won't stop spinning and the sun won't stop shining if you (we) power down for a bit and check in with ourselves.

This tip probably requires no explanation. . . . and so, I won't explain.

So, you're not Picasso? That's okay. Beauty is, as they say, in the eye of the beholder. While you're watching the colors take a new shape, remind yourself about the beauty in the world and linger there.

It's relatively impossible to talk in a swimming pool. Also, being surrounded by water requires intense concentration so as not to drown.

I don't know if I have a favorite suggestion on the list. . . but this might be it. Sleep is your friend and if you have the luxury of sneaking in a midday nap - go for it!

This might seem like a no-brainer, but perhaps the easiest way to increase the quiet in your day is to stop talking. And if someone else is talking, encourage them to stop talking too. . . provided you can do the latter with tact and grace. If not, politely excuse yourself to a space without words.

I know I said 10, but here's an 11th as a bonus. One additional way of increasing the quiet in your day is by kissing. . . . it may increase some other things as well. :)