In many ways human beings are improbable. It’s improbable that creative intelligence that is both self-reflective with the capacity to be self-destructive would arise from algae or be placed here by a creator powerful enough to evoke the full complexity that we, as humans, exhibit. It’s improbable that we would turn from, and fight the very flesh and blood that allows us life. And yet, I see it every day both in myself and my clients. Many modern humans have lost right relationship with healthy movement, healthy rest, and healthy nourishment of our bodies.
Understanding and embracing our physical bodies can lead to a healthier and more balanced life. It doesn’t have to be a big grand shift. In this moment, I invite you to pause and make yourself a little more comfortable. For you right now, is that a drink of water, a shift of position? A deep breath, a subtle relaxation of the shoulders?
As you keep reading, notice if there is anywhere in the body “asking for attention” (generally through pain or tension – like a small child would). If you are willing and able, take the time right now to offer a kind greeting to that place. For me it’s the ball of my right foot. So I say internally, and gently – like talking to a cat or a dog – “Hello. I hear that you are upset. I hear that something isn’t working for you. I hear you that it’s uncomfortable. Do you need anything?” – And the curious thing is that the sensation shifts and my impulse to action arises: shoes off, slippers on, and a drink of water.
Sometimes there’s nothing to be done, but acknowledging the sensation, instead of fighting it, allows the space for the sensation to shift. Sometimes persistent uncomfortable sensations are a signal to get professional support – see a masseuse, physical therapist, naturopath, embodied life-coach, somatic therapist, acupuncturist, chiropractor, music educator or personal trainer. It depends on what the sensations are and the circumstances surrounding them as to if, and what type of professional. But – we won’t know until a full system meltdown unless we befriend our bodies and pay attention to the signals offered.
I offer a space of grace and listening to the body through group dance practice, but that’s not the only way. I also have life-coaching tools and somatic training that allows me to befriend your body and help you gather information from yourself that you might be blocking out of habit or conditioning. I am trained to help you meet and access sensations that are challenging, and return again and again to the present moment as a resource. I am trained to help you discern how to move towards your goals that includes your full Self and your physical body.
Often, there’s good reason from the past that it’s been hard to trust or listen to the body. We were actively trained to push through our sensations again and again, and it can be hard to know which ones to take action on and which ones to push through. Finding the balance between honoring the body and doing what needs to be done can be tricky. Sometimes it’s time to wake up and go to school or work even if the body is still tired. Sometimes the needs of the other people around us take precedence of our own impulses for a time. But, if that is always and consistently our experience, what small shift could make more space for our honoring our own cycles and needs?
A few days ago I sat under a dormant apricot tree and felt both tired and resisting the tired – feeling the pull to do more things. A tired animal, unless actively being hunted, would rest when it’s tired. Why can that so hard for me as a human? And yet, “it is only during sleep that our brain can cement the connections that teach us how to do a new thing,” Martha Beck. So I slowed down even more. I got curious about what I did have energy for, what I might need, and I offered myself and my body the grace of time. The reset that I needed took a day and did not include sickness as it often does if I don’t listen to the impulse to rest the first time.
What does your body need? Perhaps you want to come dance in community? Perhaps you want to shut off your devices earlier and take more time at night to digest your day? Perhaps you want to walk outside or do some gentle stretching? Perhaps you want to spend time talking to someone who can help discern what the sensations are trying to say?
Instead of viewing our physical instincts as something to be controlled or hidden, how might they be allies? By befriending the body using our creative intelligence, we harness its natural wisdom and strength. This friendship allows us to live more fully, embracing both the wild and gentle aspects of our nature. These bodies are more than just meat-suits; they are dynamic, feeling, intelligent beings, and can be a friend along the path. By befriending the human animal that we are, we honor the past that has shaped us and we unlock the potential for a more vibrant life.