01/27/2026
Here’s a gentle experiment for your next social gathering:
- Try listening to understand.
- Take a breath before responding.
- Let a pause be a pause.
- Ask one curious question. (“What was that like for you?”)
- Be present with your whole body. Soften. Notice. Stay.
We already know noise affects mental health—but what if over-talking is another kind of noise pollution? This reflection explores why we fill every pause and how nature gently teaches us to listen with more presence, curiosity, and care.