Sensations of the Body

Clarissa Pinkola Estés, in her influential book Women Who Run With the Wolves (a book I have only read about 15 times🤣) so beautifully expresses the profound and intricate language of the body: “The body is a multilingual being. It speaks through its color and its temperature, the flush of recognition, the glow of love, the ash of pain, the heat of arousal, the coldness of nonconviction. It speaks through its constant tiny dance, sometimes swaying, sometimes a-jitter, sometimes trembling. It speaks through the leaping of the heart, the falling of the spirit, the pit at the center, and rising hope”

This eloquent description highlights that the body is a vessel of deep wisdom and communication.

Learning to tune into the sensations of your body can be a transformative journey toward greater self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and overall well-being.

Our bodies are constantly communicating with us, providing insights into our physical, emotional and mental states. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, we often ignore or suppress these messages. Reconnecting with the sensations of the body when we are in a place of freedom and flow can help us understand ourselves on a deeper level and allow us to lead a more harmonious life.

Reconnecting with our bodily sensations is more than a form of self-care; it is a vital practice for maintaining overall well-being. Inspired by the wisdom of Osho, "Get out of your head and get into your heart. Think less, feel more."

Sensations are the how the body signals various states and emotions. These signals can manifest in a variety of ways, such as the warmth of love, the tightness of overwhelm, or the heaviness of sadness. Recognising and interpreting these sensations is the first step in attuning to your body.

There is a connection between emotions and bodily sensations - they are deeply intertwined. When we experience an emotion, it often triggers a physical response.

Joy might bring a lightness to your step and a warmth to your chest.

Fear can cause a tightening in your stomach or a quickening of your heartbeat.

Sadness may result in a heaviness in your limbs or a lump in your throat.

Embarrassment might make you blush or avoid eye contact

Curiosity can get you to lean forward, tilt your head or widen your gaze

Love could create a fluttering sensation in your chest

Understanding this connection of the physical manifestations of your emotions allows you to process them more effectively and respond to them in healthier ways. This heightened emotional intelligence allows you to navigate challenging situations with grace & ease.

Tuning into the sensations of your body is an intentional practice that cultivates awareness and mindfulness. This increased self-awareness can lead to a greater understanding of your needs, desires and boundaries, allowing you to live more authentically.

Here are some techniques to help you reconnect with the sensations within your body;

Mindful Breathing is a simple yet powerful practice to connect with yourself and tune into the sensations of your body. Take a few moments each day to focus on your breath. Notice the rise and fall of your chest and abdomen, and the sensation of the air entering and leaving your body. Pay attention to how your body feels with each inhale and exhale. This practice can help increase your awareness of your bodily sensations. By bringing your breath & attention to the present moment you can cultivate a sense of calm and relaxation and heighten your awareness of the internal rhythms of your body.

A body scan meditation allows you to mentally scanning your body from head to toe, paying attention to any sensations you encounter. Find a quiet space, close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Lie down in a comfortable position. Starting from the top of your head, slowly move your attention down through your body, noticing any areas of tension, discomfort, tingling, warmth or relaxation. During this practice it is important to observe rather than judge or try to change anything. This practice helps you become more attuned to the subtle messages that your body is sending.

Engaging in gentle movement and stretching can help you connect with your bodily sensations. Practices such as yoga, tai chi or simple stretching exercises encourage you to pay attention to how your body feels as it moves. Notice the sensations of your muscles as they contract and relase, the rhythm of your breath, and the flow of energy through your body.

Journaling about your bodily sensations and emotions can provide insights into the patterns and connections between them. Take a few minutes each day to write about how your body feels and any emotions you are experiencing. Over time, you may begin to notice correlations between certain sensations and emotional states, helping you understand your body's language better.

Grounding practices help you connect with the present moment and your body. Techniques such as walking barefoot on grass, holding a cold object, or focusing on the feeling of your feet on the ground can bring your awareness back to your body. These exercises are particularly helpful when you are feeling overwhelmed or disconnected.

I have also provided a visualasation practice to support you with communicating with your body. Click here to expereince this practice. 

The human body is indeed a multilingual being, speaking to us in numerous ways. By tuning into the sensations of your body and her amazing wisdom you can unlock a deeper understanding of yourself and enhance your overall well-being. Discovering and embracing the sensations in your body is a powerful way to cultivate mindfulness and enhance your connection to yourself. Each moment sent the practice of listening to the messages of your body and allow this wisdom to guide you towards a more harmonious and fulfilling life.

By getting out of your head and into your body, you open the door to greater self-awareness, emotional balance and overall wellbeing.

The path to bodily awareness + connection is uniquely yours to explore and cherish.