Arjun - are you like him?

In the heart of bustling Mumbai, where the cacophony of city life never ceases, lives Arjun, a 45-year-old seasoned traveller and corporate executive. Despite his success, Arjun constantly felt an overwhelming sense of restlessness.

It wasn't until a serene evening in the Himalayas, under a blanket of stars, that he discovered the profound impact of stillness over the New Year's weekend.

This revelation is not unique to Arjun; it's a journey many of us yearn for in our fast-paced lives.

In today's world, where action and constant movement are prized, the concept of stillness often goes undervalued. Yet, for you and me, stillness is not just a luxury; it's a necessity.

Over 80% of the people I meet report a significant improvement in their mental health and decision-making abilities when they practiced stillness regularly.

So is there science to back this up?

Neuroscience research has shown that stillness activates the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress and enhancing clarity. Your parasympathetic nervous system is the one that calms you down.

But if you are a busy professional, seeking balance or incorporating stillness can seem daunting.

So start small. This is not an Olympic race. Even a few seconds is a great start.

Globally, the trend towards embracing stillness is gaining momentum. In Japan, the practice of Shinrin-yoku, or 'forest bathing', has become a national health strategy.

Similarly, in Scandinavian countries, 'hygge', the art of creating cosiness and comfortable conviviality, emphasises quietude and contentment.

For Indians, this is a new wine in an old bottle. Stillness has always been a part of our cultural tapestry, evident in practices like yoga and meditation. There is no single path to achieving stillness.

If anyone is interested, reach out, I will share my ongoing journey to trying to climb this mountain.

Reach out to me on twitter @rbawri Instagram @riteshbawriofficial and YouTube at www.youtube.com/breatheagain