Sense of self

Our bodies offer us a connection to an innate intelligence; this intelligence can lead us to the root of our pain physically, mentally, and emotionally. Learn to consult your body sensations as a way to direct your healing. It is in our instinctive nature to move towards homeostasis and holism. Our bodies do not judge nor lie to us; our bodies are always trying to move us towards health. All we have to do is learn to listen to the messages and we will be guided towards decisions that benefit us.

Developing somatic awareness is a practice that involves taking time to be with yourself. Silence and focused inward attention will become the skills you develop.

The first step towards somatic awareness.

1. Challenge how you perceive your body

Our western social construct does not teach us to connect with our bodies and rely on them as a source of guidance and wisdom. Rather it dictates that we control our bodies and dissect them piece by piece manipulating and forcing change upon them. Do you view your body as something to be controlled in order to be healthy or do you let your body direct you towards well being?

2. Listen

Find at least 5 minutes every day to sit down and witness your experience. You are not required to silence your thoughts our have a cosmic experience. Just witness whatever arises. It helps to practice vairagya. In yoga, vairagya is a state of non-aversion and non-attraction; it is neither pushing away nor clinging to your experiences. Notice how you grasp at or avoid certain sensations, emotions and thoughts; do not judge yourself or try to change this. Follow your sensations they will lead you to a part of yourself that exists outside of thought, it exists simply to inform you and most importantly trust yourself when you do receive a message.