On March 5, Sara M. St. George, Ph.D., associate professor of Public Health Sciences, led Navigating Noise and Embracing Silence, a virtual workshop that encouraged students to examine the different types of “noise” they encounter each day, and how creating space for stillness can foster mental clarity, emotional regulation, and a stronger connection to self. The Department of Public Health Sciences hosted the event as part of its Women’s Month programming.

Dr. St. George, who is also Director of the Master of Science in Prevention Science and Community Health, opened the session with a mindfulness exercise and a personal noise inventory, prompting participants to reflect on the past 24 hours. Attendees categorized sources of noise—environmental, digital, social, and internal—and rated their impact on well-being. The activity helped students identify what felt energizing, draining, or simply habitual, and where they might reduce distractions moving forward.

The second half of the session explored the benefits of intentional silence. After reading a passage from “The Three Ordinary Voices of God” by Matthew Kelly, students were invited into five minutes of silence. Participants then shared reflections on what surfaced during the pause, ranging from heightened self-awareness to realizing how rare quiet moments have become.

A highlight of the program was a pre-recorded mindfulness message from one of Dr. St. George’s daughters when she was four years old, who offered heartfelt wisdom: “Get kind and mindful… because that makes your parents happy.” Her simple reminder served as a meaningful opening to a session focused on compassion, reflection, and everyday choices.

By the end of the hour, students were asked to commit to one small change, whether limiting screen time, reclaiming quiet moments during the morning, or simply being more conscious of the noise they absorb. The session’s message was clear: silence is a practice of intention, one that can support focus, growth, and well-being.

"I have been working on making space in my own life for intentional silence, which I equate with prayer. Rather than offering a single mindfulness exercise, I hoped this session would give participants the opportunity to more broadly reflect on the roles that both noise and silence play in their own lives,” said Dr. St. George.

Written by Deycha Torres Hernández, published on April 28, 2025.