Healing. Silence is essential for deep transformation. It allows the practice of conscious breathing to become deep and effective.
Like still water that reflects things as they are, the calming silence helps us to see things more clearly, and therefore, to be in deeper contact with ourselves and those around us. In common areas, if we do find it necessary to speak, we do it discreetly to help preserve the silent atmosphere.
Any practice needs to be done with intelligence. Our practice of silence need not be oppressive. Although we do not speak, we can still acknowledge the presence of others with a smile or a bow.
Mindfulness Practice Community of Toronto 