This is a question that I’ve been asking myself lately..
✨Do I feel safe in my body?
✨Am I carrying tension in my body?
✨Am I even in my body?
When I close my eyes and consciously connect with my body I usually notice some tension in my hands and neck, a tightening sensation..
That’s when I shift my awareness toward my breath,
and I take slow deep breaths in through the nose and allow for deep exhalations through the mouth.
While breathing I do a body scan,
I check in with my feet, my legs, pelvic, torso, chest, shoulders, back, neck and head.
I look for tension..
I then purposefully tighten and release the segments of my body.
In order to FEEL the difference between total relaxation and tension.
✨WHY DO I DO THIS?✨
I do this because I recognize my body’s tendency to tense up throughout the day without my awareness.
Tension leads to fatigue, irritability and keeps the body in a low level of fight or flight.
When we are in prolonged states of fight or flight we are unable to digest properly,
our respiratory rate increases,
we produce stress hormones,
our heart rate increases,
our immune system decreases,
and all of this leads to excess stress/tension in the body.
We have to help our bodies to transition into rest and digest in order to feel peaceful and mental clarity.
The reality is,
many of us DONT FEEL SAFE IN OUR BODIES!
We learned at a very young age that our bodies are not safe places to be, this happened as a result of verbal, mental and physical abuse. This happened as a result of being emotionally manipulated by adults, or sexually violated. This happened as a result of neglect, ignorance or a myriad of other reasons.
These experiences tell our nervous system that we live in an extremely dangerous world and that we must be on HIGH ALERT at all times..
We were also not taught healthy coping mechanisms that aide in the bodies ability to regulate properly and easily switch from fight or flight into rest and digest.
As adults it is our job to recognize our tendencies to hold onto stress in the body and to learn new coping mechanisms, and re-train our nervous systems.
This simple technique of checking in with our bodies is a wonderful way to sooth the nervous system,
re-wire the neural network and to remind our bodies that we are safe and that it’s ok to be present in the moment and to relax.. This practice leads to greater mind-body awareness and ensures the body that we are no longer running from the "lion" and that it is now safe to rest and digest.
Feeling safe in our bodies is easier for some than others.
If you struggle to feel safe in your body it is a sign that your nervous system needs love, support and care.
Creating opportunities to practice inner peace and self regulation is the greatest gift you can give to yourself.
I invite you to practice checking in with your self regularly through out each day.
Am I breathing properly,
Am I carrying tension,
Am I overwhelmed by emotions,
DO I need to create 10 minutes in order to process feelings and sensations in my body?
When we begin to work with our bodies, we learn to trust ourselves, we learn to value our needs and we learn to listen to our, very wise, bodies.
Body Awareness Check-In: Begin by taking a few deep breaths and bringing your attention to your body. Journal about how your body feels in this moment. Are there areas of tension or relaxation? How would you describe the overall sensation in your body? Explore any emotions or thoughts that arise as you connect with your physical self. This prompt encourages a regular practice of tuning into your body's signals and understanding the messages it may be sending.
Body Gratitude Exercise: Reflect on the various ways your body serves you and allows you to navigate the world. Journal about aspects of your body that you are grateful for, whether it's the ability to move, senses like sight and touch, or the intricate systems that keep you alive. Consider how expressing gratitude for your body can foster a more positive and appreciative connection. This prompt encourages a shift from focusing on perceived flaws to acknowledging and celebrating the wonders of your unique physical being.
Embodiment Through Movement: Engage in a mindful movement practice, such as yoga, stretching, or a simple walk. Afterward, journal about your experience. How did the movement feel in your body? Did you notice any changes in your mood or mindset? Explore the connection between movement and your sense of embodiment. Consider incorporating regular movement practices into your routine as a way to strengthen the connection with your body and enhance overall well-being.
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Love it 😜