I think I'm onto something. I've been using this method of silent play for about 2 weeks with seemingly no ill affects.

I have a second bow that has never seen rosin. I used talcum powder on the strings. Putting a small qty in my palm and generously rubbing the bow hairs.I then tap the back of the bow several times to get rid of the loose powder. Its VERY quiet, almost silent, but very understandable and spot on for tone.

I clean the bow strings before and after each hushed session. I have virtually silent play the entire time. I can hear the notes very clearly. I can play and practice to my hearts content. There is no more then a very light and lofty whirl sound at each notes frequency. It sort of sounds like an electric but much much softer and quieter.

Anyways, I just wipe down the violin then clean the strings and its ready for normal play.