What does that even mean? So many of us don't even stop to hear what our body is "saying" to us, until it becomes a scream!
On the one end, we may push through our day, accomplishing various tasks, telling ourselves that we'll take a break when ____ is done. Our brain tells us to keep going, to be productive.
On the other extreme, we may take it so easy that we exert minimum effort for everything. We never want to challenge ourselves physically. It seems we just want to rest all the time. But it that our body or our mind talking?
How do we really listen to our body? Here's what works for me (and you may notice some of this is how I start most classes):
1. Find some quiet time alone and be still.
Find a nice spot where you can sit comfortably. Turn off the TV, your phone ringer, and move away from your computer.
2. Tune into the 5 senses: sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch.
What are you noticing about your body? Listen to every little signal, from your scalp to your toes. If your brain is jumping in to tell you analyze, rehash, plan, or act, tell the thoughts to pause.
3. Notice your breath and your feelings.
As the breath moves through the body, notice what moves with inhale and releases with the exhale. Keep the breath moving calmly, and allow yourself to check in with your emotions and mental state. Again, no analyzing, planning, or taking action - just notice.
4. Choose what you want next.
At this point it may be clearer what your body needs. You may keep with this stillness as a meditation. If you feel weary, rest. If you're ready to move, test some gentle movement. If it's feeling good to move, keep it going and maybe increase your pace or intensity.