Listening to Your Body

Written by Casille Kristol, LAC

In previous Storytime videos, we have discussed the importance of communication during times of stress. In addition to the communication you have with others, it is equally important to communicate with your own body during times of stress. Listening to your body means to be attentive to all messages you receive from your physical, emotional, and mental self.

How to listen to your body:

  1. Stop and ask yourself how you are feeling in that moment

  2. After checking in with your body, address any immediate needs that you can fulfill. You can do this by checking the H.A.L.T. signals (hungry, angry, lonely, tired) and think about what your body needs most at that moment.

  3. Ask yourself if you would want a friend or loved one to be treated the way you are treating yourself.

  4. Cherish your body and provide gentle loving kindness.

When we listen to our bodies, especially in times of stress and crisis, we find that the messages we may receive can be primarily anxiety driven. It is important to remember that messages of anxiety are still important messages.

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Anxiety is a reminder to ourselves to address immediate concerns like:

  • Turn off the screen

  • Focus on what is in your control

  • Remember that not all thoughts are true

  • Deal with something you have been avoiding

  • Take a few (or many) deep, slow, and focused breaths

  • Check in and listen to your wise voice within

  • Treat yourself with gentle loving kindness

  • Exercise

  • Get more sleep

  • Simply notice that you are feeling anxiety, without any judgement, as you would for a friend.

It is okay to take breaks just as it is okay to ask for help. No one is judging you as hard as you may be judging yourself. Remember to listen to your body as you would listen to a friend. Sending you all big hugs and butterfly kisses.

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Navigating the Stress of the 'New Normal'