Listening to our bodies

How many of us listen to your bodies? When we are tired do we take the time to rest or do we just grab a pop, a tea or coffee and continue to push on? Since my surgery, I have had to learn to listen to my body. Here are the things I have learned works for me.

Practice being mindful and in the present moment. You can do this by picking a routine task you always do, such as washing the dishes. Then focus your mind on what you are doing as you do it. Let thoughts about other things fade into the background. As you learn how to be aware of the present moment, awareness of your body in the present moment will increase as well.

Regular exercise is very important. Get exercise from yoga, dance, or martial arts. If classes aren't in your budget, get a book or video out of the library. The focus on movement will help you become more aware of your body. It will increase awareness of your mind-body connection. Regular exercise is an important part of for stress management. I also meditate once a day.

Healthy eating is key. Notice when you feel full or get a stomach ache. These are signals from your body telling you to stop eating, or that you've eaten too much. It can also signal that you ate something that didn't agree with your body. Your body loves healthy eating.

Stop and reflect when you have low energy, headaches, or other "aches and pains." These are signals from your body that something in your life needs to change, especially if the feeling is persistent. Maybe you need to implement some new stress management skills, or maybe there's something you need to get out in the open. Maybe you need to change something in your diet or get more rest.

Notice when you feel energized. This is a signal from your body that your habits have been good for your body. With healthy eating, stress management, and regular exercise, your body will abound with energy.