Benefits of Quiet Time & How to Create a Quiet Time Space

I know what you’re thinking: how can I possibly find time in my day for quiet time? In those early years of parenting (and even the later ones!), quiet time feels like a luxury you can’t afford. Even if you could find time to do it, the laundry needs to be done, the baby is crying, and the preschooler is asking you “why?” for the gazillionth time today. Honestly, all the more reason you need quiet time.

Even if you are not an introvert like me, time to reflect and be quiet is restorative for the soul. It sustains and rebuilds your energy level to give your kiddos the best version of yourself! Scientific studies have also suggested that silence decreases your overall cortisol levels, reducing stress. Maybe you use this time to sit in the stillness. Maybe you focus on your breathing. Maybe you spend time in prayer. Whatever you choose to do, I promise it will be worth it!

But the benefits aren’t just for your mental health; your physical health improves, too! According to Cleveland Clinic, spending time in silence can decrease your heart rate, lower your blood pressure, and reduce your muscle tension. Sitting in silence can be stupidly difficult – it's shocking how accustomed we have gotten to the noise. We’re used to being entertained, scrolling, watching tv. Power through the awkwardness to get to the good stuff!

3 Tips to Create a Quiet Time and Space in Your Home:

1. For your kids, utilize early afternoons to your advantage. If you still have nappers, great! Spend 10 or 15 minutes in quiet time for yourself, too. If some of your kiddos are beyond the napping stage, start the habit of “quiet time” in their rooms during the time they used to nap. Your child can lay in bed, read a book, listen to quiet music, or even use a tablet if you’re okay with that. Then YOU retreat to your quiet space, too.

2. Don’t have a quiet space at home? First, consider what space you have available. Have a home office? An oversized closet not in use? Even a corner of a living room or bedroom can be transformed to give you a sense of calm when you’re sitting in it. In our house, there is an awkwardly wide hallway or an awkwardly narrow room, depending on your perspective. We added a single chair, lamp, and aquarium, and now we actually use that space for quiet time! Consider what you have, and then transform it!

3. Consider what calms you! Minimalism is definitely the way to go here! A single comfy chair and side table kind of screams alone time. Add a small lamp, zen garden, or plant to your table to bring calm. Choose earthy paint tones - warm greys, beiges, or even greens are incredibly soothing! A single diffuser or candle with lavender scent (or whatever else you love!) is a great addition to your quiet time space. If you want any additional decorations, consider adding a single piece of wall art. A photograph from a beach trip, a map of Paris, anything that brings you peace and joy!

I know the last thing you need is another thing on your “to do” list, but this one is worth it. Only 10-15 minutes a day of quiet time can pay out big dividends for your mental and emotional health! Do you have a daily quiet time? How do you make it happen?