Mouna (Vow of silence)—Observe Mouna for a couple of hours daily.

—Sri Swami Sivananda 

Commentary:

Mouna means control of the organ of speech (tongue). Mouna for two hours is the absolute minimum. Do not think that you are observing Mouna during your sleep daily so there is no need for this Mouna. Much energy is wasted in talking. Miscellaneous talking is a bad habit. It distracts the mind. It keeps the mind outgoing. Concentration on studies or meditation is not possible if the mind is outgoing, hence the necessitiy of observing Mouna. Considerable peace follows Mouna. Will becomes stronger. You can rest in peace. You can meditate on God without any difficulty.

When you observe Mouna, do not think always – ‘I won’t talk, I won’t talk’. Simply make a determination and then remain quiet.

In the beginning, when you observe Mouna. various kinds of thoughts will arise and force you to break the silence. Be bold. Concentrate on God. The desire to talk will slowly subside.

 (Commentary by Sri Swami Chidananda)