By: Heather Pleasants, Spa Director at Toppers Spa/Salon  at the Dover Downs Hotel & Casino

How often do you sit in silence? No, I am not talking about sleep, and I am not talking about doing an activity in silence- I am talking about sitting or laying down quietly with your own thoughts. My guess is that it has been awhile. Did you know that silent moments can make you healthier, and even re-connect you to your loved one? In our uber-connected and busy world, the most underrated and forgotten experience is the one that you can do anytime, anywhere, and costs nothing. Just giving yourself 5 minutes of quiet solitude can slow your heart rate, regulate your breathing, help process information more efficiently, and increase your creativity and emotional well-being.

Everyone from Yoga Instructors to Buddist Monks have proclaimed the benefits of a silent and internal life . “In silence, we are calmer,” says Sharon Salzberg, co-founder of the Insight Meditation Society in Barre, Mass. “Silence helps us connect to that which we normally miss- elements of our experience that are subtle, yet rich.”

Start with specific moments: “In the spirit of exploration, tell yourself that for a week you won’t turn on the TV during meals,” suggests Salzberg. “You will just eat your food and be able to more fully experience its taste, touch, scent.” View this as an adventure, not a chore, and soon you’ll tune in to the healthful sound of silence.

For couples, silence can offer a chance to reconnect without exchanging a word- just sitting quietly looking into each other’s eyes can, metaphorically, speak volumes. So, as we transition from winter and get ready to welcome spring, take a quiet moment for yourself – you will be glad you did.

Heather Pleasants is Spa Director at Toppers Spa/Salon Dover Downs Hotel & Casino. Heather has over 23 years in the Health/Spa Industry, with a BA in Communication Arts for Marymount Manhattan College in New York City – as well as being a certified fitness trainer, aesthetician, and pool operator.

For more information or to schedule your day of luxury, visit www.toppersspa.com or call (302) 857-2020.

Exclusive Offer Only for the Readers of the Women’s Journal:
Book your Bridal Party at Toppers and receive a FREE Massage
when you return from you honeymoon!
(302) 857 – 2020
Exclusions apply – must book your party before March 31, 2010
Use code “WJ Bride” when booking

Toppers Spa/Salon is proud to be your Bridal Destination!
- Bachelorette Parties
- Bridal Party Hair/Make-up/Nails
- Relaxation & Pampering
- Couples Massage

Toppers Spa/Salon would be honored to help you celebrate your Special Day!  Let our award-winning therapists pamper and prepare you and your Bridal Party for all the special events leading up to your Big Day! It might be the best decision of your life (well, maybe the second best decision of your life…)