How much time do you spend worrying about the future or stuck in the past? Do you spend all day in your head, without connecting to your body and listening to its needs?
Raise your hand if this is you! (Trust me, I’m human and get caught in this cycle, too.)
However, this is a dangerous cycle that takes us away from the present moment, hinders our body attunement, and can be simply-put…exhausting. It’s important that we connect with our bodies.
Today, I’m sharing with you 5 strategies to cultivate more present moment awareness by anchoring into the body.
How to Connect with Your Body
1. Door Knob Reminder.
My therapist once shared this with me, and it really stuck. Each time you open a door and enter a new space, silently repeat this mantra to yourself: “I am responsible for the energy I bring into this room.” Observe how this brings your awareness back to your body in the here and now.
2. Intuitive Movement.
This isn’t about exercise to burn calories or fit into last year’s jeans. This is about movement with a focus on what feels good to you. Maybe it’s cycling to your favorite music and feeling the strength of your legs. Maybe it’s paying attention to your feet on the ground as you walk home. Perhaps it’s treating yourself to a restorative yoga class. Whatever you choose, pay attention to how your body feels in movement.
3. Self-Care.
Take a hot bath or shower, lather yourself with lotion, and wrap yourself up in a cozy robe or blanket. Slow down for each of these practices. Pay attention to the warmth of the water, the softness of your skin, and the texture of the blanket wrapped around your body.
4. Mindful Eating.
Of course, I had to mention mindful eating! Since we eat multiple times a day, this is a no-fail strategy. Next time you eat, pay attention to the first bite, middle bite, and last bite of food. Engage all senses and pay attention to full flavor, texture, and mouthfeel of food.
5. Body Scan Connect.
Before bed, allow time for head-to-toe relaxation in the form of a body scan. Gently move your awareness along each part of your body, noticing the full-spectrum of sensations. Release tension from the muscles and send breath to the areas in need of extra attention. Download this audio recording to try it for yourself!
What strategies stand out to you?
Choose one to practice today, and enjoy a greater feeling of connection to your body and the present moment.