Pico Iyer is the acclaimed and bestselling author of more than a dozen books translated into twenty-three languages, most recently the nationally bestselling Aflame: Learning from Silence.
Episode cheatsheet
The big takeaway
Acclaimed writer Pico Iyer shares how cultivating silence—even in a noisy, chaotic world—can be the ultimate luxury and a powerful tool for clarity, compassion, and renewal. Drawing on over three decades of monastic retreats, Iyer discusses how intentional solitude and stillness aren’t about escape, but about deepening our connection to ourselves, others, and what matters most.
Finding calm in a world on fire: Silence as renewal
Key takeaways:
Monastic silence isn’t just quiet—it’s a charged, collective atmosphere that softens the ego and creates space for true connection.
Rest and stillness aren’t self-indulgent; they’re essential for replenishing our inner resources so we can better serve, create, and show up for others.
Real clarity and perspective often require stepping back—whether through retreat, daily practices, or intentional pauses—to see what really matters.
Facing silence can be uncomfortable, but it’s an opportunity to meet what’s beneath our mental noise and build resilience for navigating life’s volatility.
6 practical tips for inviting more calm and clarity in daily life:
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