by Kidada N Fields, M.Ac., L.Ac.
We live in a computer age that keeps us mentally stimulated. We are constantly checking emails, voicemails, text messages, Facebook pages & tweets. But, take a moment to answer the question, “When is the last time you checked in on you?” Imagine if we used all of that computer-techno-over stimulated energy to check into our bodies and give the brain a rest!
Getting out of your head and into your body is an empowering habit. Your body’s intelligence constantly sends you physical messages. These messages can come in the form of tightness, tingling, heaviness, or some indescribable feeling known only to you. Tuning into these messages will tell you how you are holding your body, whether there is tightness, or how you are being affected by a certain person or situation.
The breath is an excellent “body scanning” tool. Because cells depend on oxygen to survive & function, the air you breathe travels to every corner of your body; you just have to take time to notice. Oxygen rich blood is powered and pumps through the body at a high speed & pressure quickly providing your cells with a key ingredient needed for cellular respiration, energy, feeding the brain, and muscle relaxation. Try tuning into your body to notice what happens when you breathe, especially at a slower pace. Do you notice a change in your heartbeat? Do you notice a part of your body your generally do not think of?
There are numerous breathing exercises that can help you become more in tuned with yourself. Yoga is an excellent way to get into the body and offers great breathing techniques. Be wise – use your breath at anytime to do a body scan. Use techniques learned from others or create an exercise unique to you.
For example, as you sit checking emails, take a moment in between messages to notice your breath. Observe any sensations. Make no judgments, ask no questions. Just feel yourself inhale and exhale. Feel your feet grounded on the floor and send the breath to them. Notice you core and breath into this area. Send your breath and love to any areas of tension, tightness, uneasiness. Let go if only for that moment. You will not be disappointed.
You can even try it while standing in line at the market, mopping the floor, washing the dishes, taking a shower, or while listening to your favorite tune. The more you practice the easier it will become. You will find yourself conducting a body scan with every breath you take, when shaking someone’s hand or handing them a pen.
If you are a beginner at this, you may need a reminder. After all, there is nothing flashing on your cell phone nor is there an ad in the corner of your email page. Try writing yourself a little note and sticking it on your steering wheel or your bathroom mirror. How about using a red light as your reminder to take a deep breath and tune into you. This practice allows you to internally hit your reset button and move to a place of newness, relaxation and empowerment.
Many clients report that they become more aware of their body with acupuncture treatment. Acupuncture is a great tool to help clear mental and emotional blocks that keep one from feeling their body. If you find feeling your body a difficult task, you may need assistance. Contact Kidada at kidada@womeninwellnessmd.com to schedule a free consultation today.
