Listen to your body, it is wise
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s easy to overlook one of the most profound sources of wisdom available to us: our own bodies. Embodiment - the practice of fully inhabiting and being aware of your physical self - isn’t just a trendy wellness term. It’s an essential way of living that allows us to tap into a wellspring of insight, balance, and healing.
Your body is not just a vessel; it’s a compass, a second brain, and an intuitive guide. Yet, many of us have become so disconnected from it that we miss the messages it sends us every day.
What Is embodiment?
Embodiment is the practice of being present in your body, of listening to its sensations, signals, and needs. When you are embodied, you’re not just existing in your physical form but you are deeply aware of it. It’s about being tuned into how your body feels in the moment, whether that’s tension in your shoulders, a flutter of excitement in your chest, or a sense of grounded calm in your feet.
The body as a source of wisdom
Your body is constantly communicating with you. It signals when it needs rest, nourishment, movement, or even emotional release. These signals can be subtle, like a sense of tightness in your chest when something feels wrong, or overt, like the exhaustion that comes from pushing yourself too hard.
In fact, science backs this up. The gut, often referred to as the “second brain,” is home to millions of neurons and plays a key role in our emotional and physical health. Similarly, your nervous system serves as the body’s alert system, helping you sense danger, regulate emotions, and find safety.
As author and mindfulness teacher Tara Brach writes, “Your body is precious. It is your vehicle for awakening. Treat it with care.”
Are you listening to your body?
Pause for a moment and check in with yourself: How does your body feel? Do you feel open and expansive, or closed and contracted? Are you energized or depleted? These simple observations can tell you a lot about your state of being. Change begins with awareness, and awareness starts with listening to your body.
For many of us, the pace of life forces us to override our body’s needs. We ignore fatigue, push through pain, or dismiss discomfort. Over time, this disconnection can lead to stress, burnout, and even illness.
Practicing embodiment
The good news is that you can cultivate a deeper connection with your body. Here are some simple practices to get started:
Slow down: The body thrives on rest and reflection. Take moments throughout your day to pause, breathe, and tune in to how you’re feeling.
Mindful movement: Practices like yoga, tai chi, or even a gentle walk can help you reconnect with your physical self.
Body scans: Spend a few minutes each day mentally scanning your body from head to toe. Notice areas of tension or ease without judgment.
Nervous system care: Engage in activities that soothe your nervous system, such as deep breathing, meditative practices, or spending time in nature.
Ask your body: When faced with a decision, check in with your body. Does the choice make you feel open and light, or contracted and uneasy? Your body’s response can offer powerful guidance.
Building a better relationship with your body
Creating a harmonious relationship with your body requires both patience and kindness. Start by listening to its needs whether that’s sleep, nourishment, movement, or stillness. Honor those needs without judgment.
Embodiment also involves acknowledging that the body holds emotional and physical memories. By tending to it with compassion, you create space for healing and growth.
As Bessel van der Kolk, author of The Body Keeps the Score, reminds us, “Once you start approaching your body with curiosity rather than with fear, everything shifts.”
Final thoughts
Your body is not just a physical entity; it’s a repository of wisdom, a map to your inner world, and a guide to a more balanced and fulfilling life. By slowing down, listening to its signals, and practicing embodiment, you open the door to greater clarity, calm, and connection.
The next time you feel stressed, overwhelmed, or uncertain, pause and ask: What is my body telling me? The answers might surprise you and they might just lead you back to yourself.
