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A TedX presenter who once embarked on a 300-day silence challenge is encouraging people to spend 15 minutes per day reflecting on life and “becoming better versions of ourselves” during the corona virus lockdown.
Author and Guernsey resident David Green has launched The Silence Challenge, which asks people to take a step back from the uncomfortable reality of living through a lockdown.
According to Mr Green, even a brief period of silent meditation can increase productivity and can promote positivity.
“Five years ago on April Fool’s Day, I went into silence and self-isolation for 300 days during which I carried out a human experiment. I had no idea how long I could last or what would happen.
“No internet. No TV. No contact with friends or family. No talking. The silence lasted for 300 days during which I kept a daily diary which records the highs and lows, the surreal, the routine, the deep insights, the vivid dreams and the varied effects of intense meditation, introspection and contemplation. I had to face any loneliness, boredom or unhappiness alone as many people are now. Being a former bond trader, nothing could prepare me for all of this.
Mr Green said the purpose of The Silence Challenge is to “bring together people around the world in these difficult times and to have a fun challenge as a group together.”
“After my silence ended I gave the first ever TEDx talk in silence at Beau Sejour.”
Having previously imposed a form of lockdown upon himself, he believes the situation is an opportunity for reflection and self-improvement.
"Silence is a powerful way to become more in tune with our intuition, our positive thoughts and our creative power as well as our empathy for others. Inside of all of us is positivity, love and kindness. All assets in abundance in our community here in Guernsey.
“The topic seems really opportune right now, with many of us in the uncomfortable world of lockdown and seclusion wondering how to stay positive and how to be inspired,” he said.
“The Silence Challenge will be launched 1 April 2020 4PM GMT. Participants agree to sit silently for 15 minutes for 15 days and then to post an inspiring positive message of their own with a photo each day. People can join the challenge by going to @silence300days On Facebook. The members group is called The Silence Challenge.
“On 1 April on Facebook I will be discussing some of the benefits of my silence and hopefully many of us will use this difficult time to reflect and use the time to become better versions of ourselves.”
Pictured top: A screenshot from Mr Green’s TedX talk, which can be viewed HERE.
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