THE SWEET CONNECTION
The way sound and speech effect our sense of connection and belonging.
The connection between the quality of sound and the quality of speech and its influence on our well-being is a fascinating topic.
When I was first exposed almost 30 years ago to how sounds, tones, speech intonations, and speech styles immediately affect our physical, mental, and emotional state, I gradually discovered how to cope with situations where we have no control over what is said to us, but we do have the ability to choose how to respond.
This morning, when I listened to Tara Brach's lecture, she spoke about the quality of communication and the sense of belonging as a central component that influences the quality and length of our lives. In this context, she recounted a study from Tel Aviv University that examined the impact of different sounds on the nectar production of roses. They collected nectar from roses before and after the flowers were exposed to two types of sounds: synthetic sounds and the buzzing sound of bees.
The results of the study were fascinating. When the roses were exposed to the sound of buzzing bees, they responded by producing sweeter nectar, demonstrating a positive effect of the buzzing sound of bees on the biological processes of the roses, which in turn affected the chemical composition of their nectar.
It is evident that just as the buzzing sound of bees influenced the sweetness of the roses' nectar, so too can the way we speak and the tones we use influence others. How people see us and the connection we have with them.
Especially now, positive communication and respectful responses can strengthen and encourage a sense of connection and shared humanity.
HERE IS A SIMPLE PRACTICE:
1. Find a quiet and comfortable place to sit or lie down. Close your eyes or keep them open and softly focused on a point in front of you.
2. Take a few deep breaths to bring your attention to the present moment.
3. You can focus on the sounds around you. Notice the sounds that are close by and then expand your awareness to more distant sounds.
4. Instead of defining the sounds, simply observe them as they come and go. Allow them to come and go without getting caught up in any particular sound.
5. Now, direct your attention to your breath, and feel the natural rhythm of your breathing.
6. If your thoughts start to wander, it's time to bring your attention back to your breath or the sounds around you. Without criticism, but with kindness towards yourself, remember that it's quite normal for thoughts to wander during meditation.
7. Additionally, during the week, pay attention to the words spoken in your daily interactions. Notice if there are any regular patterns of speech or tone that you might consider changing to improve communication.
8. During conversations, try to practice active listening. Give the speaker your full attention without interrupting or judging.
9. Take a moment to pause before responding, consider how your words might impact the other person and the flow of the conversation.
10. Now you can end the meditation with a few more deep breaths and gently open your eyes.
Consistent mindfulness practice can help you be more fully present in communication and encourage a deeper sense of understanding and connection in your relationships. Mindfulness is a skill that develops with practice.
