Body Talk-Listen to the Message

Duh! I just recently came to realize that I listen to my body when it is telling me that I have to go to the bathroom, and when I am tired. These little subtle nudges warn me that my physical body needs some attention.

Active since a small child, this internal monitoring system has sent me physical messages. When I experience a feeling of fullness in my bladder area, or a slight cramping in my lower intestines, I just excuse myself and go to the bathroom. I do my business, flush the toilet, wash my hands and get back to the business of life.

When my body needs rest, I instinctively yawn. I don’t go to bed in case I get tired; I go to bed because I am tired.

Hunger clues

Frequently it is the clock or habit that is telling me I am hungry, not my body. If it is almost noon, I had better start envisioning what would be tasty, handy and easy. Usually it has cheese, melted or shredded on it somewhere. Hmmm, is that because it is what my body wants and needs or is it because I know from experience that it will taste good and that I will eat the whole greasy thing?

Is it possible to shut off that commercial for Taco Bell in my head and listen to what my body is telling me about fuel to run efficiently and long term? Perhaps old patterns and habits are broadcasting so loudly in my mind, that I don’t hear what the entire body system is trying to tell me.

Why am I not listening for the clues about being hungry and satisfied? I must learn to recognize that it is okay not to eat the whole thing or to miss a meal occasionally. Why would I anticipate being hungry, when I don't anticipate needing to go to the bathroom.

My body and spirit care about me and want to let me know what, when, where and why it needs nourishment or relief. I will pay more attention.