Mind Body Connection
Connecting to your body is an important part of wellness. Connecting to your body means developing a deeper sense of self-awareness and overall physical and mental health. You know the difference between pain and discomfort. When you are connected to your body, you know when to puch harder and when to rest. When you are connected to your body, you know who you are.
People can tend to get caught up in unconscious habits, drifting through life without really being aware. Their brain is on but their awareness is off. How many times have you gotten home from work and realized you don’t remember driving? This type of auto-pilot drifting leads to ignoring signs from the body, not knowing when to rest. Not trusting intuition, the “gut”. We practice connecting to our body so that we can give it what it needs, so that we can meet it where it is everyday. Here are some techniques that can help you connect to your body:
Focus on your breath. Connect to your body by bringing awareness to your breath. The only nervous system response that we can control is the breath. Breath is life force.
Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and aware in the present moment. It can be helpful in connecting to your body by helping you become more aware of your physical sensations, thoughts, and emotions. You can practice mindfulness by focusing on your breath, paying attention to your senses, and tuning in to your body's signals.
Practice yoga or other purposeful movement: Yoga, Pilates, or other mindful and purposeful movement practices can help you connect to your body by promoting physical awareness, strength, and flexibility. These practices can also be helpful in quieting the mind and reducing stress.
Tune in to your senses: Pay attention to the sensations in your body, such as the feeling of your feet on the ground, the temperature of the air on your skin, or the taste of the food you're eating. Focusing on your senses can help you stay present and connected to your body. Sometimes paying attention means “dropping your brain”. Some people say that closing your eyes and turning your focus inwards is the way to see clearly.
Practice body scanning: Body scanning involves systematically focusing on each part of your body, from your toes to the top of your head. This technique can help you become more aware of your physical sensations and promote relaxation.
Practice self-care: Taking care of your body by getting enough rest, eating well, getting massages, and engaging in physical activity can help you feel more connected to your body and promote overall health and well-being.
