I breathe in and out, wishing to break my vow of silence and vocalize my feelings. I wanted to express my annoyance. I wanted to externally portray my happiness. I wanted to speak.

How to Take a Vow of Silence

My urge to talk occurred on the first day of my 48-hour vow of silence. After some practice of being silent (and having a very understanding husband), I found that being silent is peaceful. Those 48 hours were the most peaceful days of my entire life. I didn’t interrupt movies with my behind-the-scenes commentary. I didn’t demand that my husband do the dishes or take out the trash every few minutes. I didn’t post on social media. I just scrolled less, noticed more, and moved on.

Quiet days like this always make me appreciate comfort. Soft, easy layers and relaxed pieces help create that grounded feeling while you unplug. Whether it’s a favorite hippie graphic tee or cozy women's boho clothing, comfort helps you settle into a slower rhythm.

I decided to take my first vow of silence after a particularly overwhelming week. I had nothing positive to say, and I was only getting angrier with social media as my fuel. There was turmoil inside me, and I hated it. Nothing positive was coming out of my mouth. Every word was saturated with sarcasm, anger, and annoyance, and I couldn’t take it anymore.

My silent retreat made me realize that some words just aren’t really needed to be said, and speaking is a privilege. I also learned the importance of listening, because that’s all I had. As much as I love to talk, it is so important to be a great listener.

By withholding my speech, I ended up stifling and ultimately eliminating my little annoyances that would have usually grabbed a hold of me. I ended up finding peace.

I truly recommend taking a vow of silence every now and then, especially if negativity has taken a hold of your speech. These are a couple of my easy tips on starting a vow of silence—your own silent retreat.

1. Make Your Silent Retreat About Peace, Not Anger

When some people get angry or hurt, they retreat within themselves and become quiet. It is a defense mechanism. Do not make this the reason behind your vow of silence. Start your vow with an open heart and open mind.

2. Give Yourself a Time Frame

Start out slow. Even a vow of silence for an hour can be a peaceful experience. No matter what amount of time you choose, try to stick to it.

3. Let Your Loved Ones Know

If you live with others, let them know what you’re doing. Communication beforehand helps avoid confusion and makes the experience more supportive for everyone.

4. Don’t Get Too Upset If You Break

You might accidentally break your silence—and that’s okay. This takes practice like anything else. Be gentle with yourself.

5. Use Other Ways to Express Yourself

Just because you can’t use your voice doesn’t mean you can’t communicate. Writing, journaling, movement, or simply sitting outside can help you express what you’re feeling.

On quiet days like this, I find myself reaching for simple comforts—soft layers, a relaxed outfit, maybe a head wrap to keep my hair back while I unplug. Little things like a cozy boho headband or a favorite tee can help create a peaceful atmosphere while you reset.

Taking time for silence gives your mind a chance to settle and your thoughts a chance to soften. In the quiet, it becomes easier to notice what really matters, let go of tension, and come back to yourself with more patience and clarity. Even a short break from constant conversation or noise can help you reset, breathe deeper, and move through your days with a little more intention and kindness.

I hope these tips help you find some quiet peace in your world and some gratitude for your own voice.

Now go on… shhh.

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