You may hear this phrase and think that you listen to your body, but is there something that’s blocking your ability?  Here are some things to consider.

1.  Slow down and be in a relaxed state. It’s easy to bring this awareness on a vacation and when your mind isn’t racing, but difficult as you live your busy daily life.

   If you have no breathing space in your calendar and your habit is to rush around, then it’s very difficult to listen to your body. Whether through meditation, prayer, sitting in nature, or being still, get in a state that allows you to be in an alternative state of being. Be patient with yourself since demanding that your body perform a certain way takes time to correct.

   Try meditating and ask yourself a question. Keep in mind the question and then see if an answer comes as you go about your day. I get the best insight while taking a shower.

2. Physical symptoms are a sign. Your natural state is a calm mind, strong digestion, and waking up feeling energized for the day most of the time. If your normal seems far from this (except for unusual circumstances) don’t accept this as normal and get the help you need. I didn’t know it wasn’t normal to be bloated all the time. You don’t have to feel this will never change or you’re a hypochondriac, so you have to just deal with it. (I’ve actually been told this and my frustration motivated to find my own health solutions.) Consider your body’s messages as warning signals.

3. Expansive or Contracted: When you have a decision to make, how does your body react? If it’s right for you, you will feel more open and your mind will feel more relaxed. Body and mind will be in alignment. If one part is uncomfortable, take the time to explore.…you’ll notice with practice. An easy way to practice this is when meeting people, especially when choosing someone who you will work closely with. Don’t let someone looking good on paper take precedence over your inner knowing of what the best choice is for you. Practice using both head and heart and this will become automatic over time.   Most of us habitually llive in our head because of the culture we live in.

   Many people have told me of negative experiences with certain medical institutions, where their concerns were ignored or minimized. Question when something doesn’t feel right for your needs.  You are the authority on your health and body. This could be life-changing matter so it’s important to find someone else as your partner-in-health.

I’ll never forget the time when I was distracted as I was trying to cross a busy street. I felt a tingle down my spine and I somehow knew to step back up the median. I hadn’t noticed a rapidly approaching car because I was lost in thought. Your body is a high-tuned receiver that is trustworthy and amazing. Your five senses work better than a supercomputer, so listen to the messages it’s giving you.