Think about it like this, if you don’t give your body what it needs, it will eventually force you to listen. This is when symptoms occur, and disease starts to manifest. Your body isn’t at ease, it’s at dis-ease.
I can tell you how valuable it is to listen to your body, but I think without giving examples, it’s hard to understand and truly know where to start.
Listening to your body means becoming deeply aware of it’s signals.
I know if I’m sitting at my desk and feeling achy or stiff, it’s time to take a walk, stretch, or roll out.
If I’m hitting a wall mid-day, I need water, a snack or maybe even a nap. A hot/cold shower sometimes helps too.
If my stomach growls, I know I need to eat something.
If my muscles are sore, I know I need to focus on recovery. Think self massage, slow movements, more magnesium/magnesium rich foods and hydration.
If I’m feeling anxious, I know I need to get outside in nature, breathe in fresh air or do a simple breathing technique. Trust me, your body probably doesn’t need more time on the Instagram explore feed.
If I don’t feel like working out that day, I don’t go. I ask myself – What do I feel like doing? What would help me feel better that day? I usually focus on something more slow (like walking with a podcast or calling a family/friend) or something creative (like creating a new recipe).
Today, it’s pretty common to feel like you’re not doing enough and usually self-care is the first to be neglected.
I know it’s hard to prioritize self-care. It often takes an illness to persuade us to give ourselves the time and care we need. I don’t want that to happen to any of you.
Moral of the story: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Remember to take care of yourself.
