How to Actually Listen to Your Body (And Why It Matters)
We’re told to listen to our bodies all the time, but what does that really mean? For many of us, especially if we’ve been through trauma, our connection with our body can feel distant or confusing.
Why It Can Be Hard to Tune In
If you’ve learned to push through discomfort or ignore your feelings to get by, your body’s signals might feel faint or even annoying. This isn’t a flaw - it’s an adaptation that once kept you safe.
Rebuilding the Connection
Listening to your body starts with curiosity, not judgement.
Try noticing:
- Physical sensations - tight shoulders, a fluttering stomach, a lump in your throat
- Energy levels - feeling wired, sluggish, or somewhere in between
- Breath - shallow, deep, held, or uneven
Instead of rushing to change these sensations, acknowledge them first:
I feel my chest tightening right now. My breath is short.
That awareness alone is a step toward regulation.
What You Might Hear
Over time, you may notice your body giving you clearer messages:
- Tiredness that signals the need to rest, not push harder
- Tension that hints at unspoken feelings or boundaries
- Butterflies that could mean excitement or anxiety - and the wisdom to know the difference
The more you listen, the more your body will trust you to respond.
If you want to go further, try the [Feel–Understand–Nurture Approach] for a structured way to explore your body’s messages.
Rachel Shaw
Rachel Shaw
