Every now and then I need a little reminder that I am not functioning well outside of a full body experience. This image, with its embedded message, came across my feed the other day and hit close to home. When I notice I am sitting with emotional distress, even the slight indifference to the day ahead, I become aware of my scattered thoughts taking over and creating a narrative. Noticing this as a “big head and little body” moment, I turn towards body awareness. This intentional move from thoughts (head) to feelings (body), relieves imbalance and stagnation, towards a broader scope of my actual experience.
This openness to inhabiting our bodies allows us to work with more than just a thought or narrative of what is possible.
Tips for waking with distress, an anxious brain, or general malaise:
Stretch your limbs and other stiff muscles, noticing your limits and lengthening as you lean into each body part.
Focus attention toward just one experience: sitting with a warm cup of coffee/tea, a book, a meditation, etc.
Get out for a walk. Even a short trip around the block can shift mind-body focus.
Reach out to a friend or loved one to check-in. Sending a text or email allows for bringing others in, broadening the scope of your experience, and sharing in meaningful connection.
Image: Ashley @ledbysource. Instagram. May 26, 2022
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