I almost quit TM back in the 70s because I couldn't quiet my mind, no matter how hard I tried. Thank goodness I didn't quit. Now I understand that completely quieting the mind isn't the goal of meditation. For me, it's becoming aware of being aware. Plus, with tinnitus, no way can I experience complete silence. I just observe it now, and my body relaxes. Great insights about those other senses. Thanks for sharing!