Spending time in silence—specifically, extended periods of quiet—has been shown to promote the growth of new brain cells, according to a 2013 study conducted by researchers at Duke University Medical School. The study, published in Brain, Structure and Function, found that mice exposed to two hours of silence per day experienced increased cell development in the hippocampus—a region of the brain associated with learning, memory, and emotion. Unlike other stimuli tested (such as noise or music), silence triggered the most significant neurogenesis, suggesting that a quiet environment may allow the brain to self-regulate and restore. While the research was conducted on animals, scientists believe the findings may also apply to humans and support the mental health benefits of stillness and mindfulness. Silence isn’t just calming—it may be physically shaping the brain. Follow for more 👉 @mindset.therapy