inner listening
Author :: Jess Marie 🌻 CVC, CAHC, INHC, E-RYT
How are you feeling?
No, really — how are you truly feeling right now?
Let’s take a moment to dive into the sensations that shift & flow within you from moment to moment.
Pause for a few minutes, breathe, and gently consider these questions ::
How does your body temperature (hot, cold, warm, clammy, etc.)?
Do you sense any heaviness or lightness in your body?
Over the course of one minute, how many heartbeats do you have?
Do you feel hunger, fullness, or satiation?
Is your mind calm or agitated?
Is your breath quiet or audible?
Do you feel rested or tired?
🕉️ How did you feel answering these questions? Was it straightforward or challenging?
Your level of ease in responding to these questions reflects your level of interoception — one’s awareness of the internal state of one’s body & Being. Interoception is a superpower we all possess, yet often overlooked in our fast-paced, externally focused world.
In the teachings of Vedanta, understanding & experiencing Atman (the Self) is considered the pinnacle of spiritual realization. This inner knowledge brings lasting peace & fulfillment, transcending the fleeting nature of external achievements & pleasures. Cultivating interoception is a vital step on this journey. By tuning into one’s internal sensations and becoming deeply aware of one’s physical, emotional, and mental states, so begins the peeling away of the layers of Maya (illusion) that obscure one’s true nature.
Interoception aligns one with the Vedantic pursuit of Self awareness, guiding one inward to recognize the eternal, unchanging Self within. As one deepens this practice, one moves closer to experiencing the ultimate unity & peace described in the Katha Upanishad.
weak interoception
In one’s daily life, there is a bombardment of stimuli & distraction, leading one’s minds to be constantly consumed by external happenings. This overconsumption can one us to neglect internal processes, often missing out on the subtle cues one’s body sends, overshadowed by the noise of the outside world.
In Yoga, it’s frequently asked, “Are you Self aware?” — a question that beckons one to reconnect with this innate ability.
the importance of interoception
Cultivating interoception brings numerous benefits ::
🫀 Body Awareness: Understanding what food & activities are compatible or incompatible with one’s body.
💘 Emotional Insight: Recognizing what relationships & situations nourish or drain one’s mind.
💖 Personal Alignment: Knowing what practices & habits benefit or hinder one’s overall well-Being.
Moreover, interoception enhances one’s ability to respond to stress and maintain emotional resilience. When one is attuned to internal signals, one can better identify & address sources of anxiety & discomfort before they escalate. This heightened Self awareness allows navigation of life’s challenges with greater ease & adaptability. Additionally, a strong sense of interoception fosters a deeper sense of empathy & connection with others. By understanding one’s own internal experiences, one becomes more attuned to the subtle cues of those around us, enriching relationships and fostering a more compassionate, supportive community.
how to strengthen interoception
Building interoception is a journey of rediscovering the profound connection between the mind & body. It requires patience, practice, and a gentle curiosity towards one’s internal experiences. By incorporating simple yet effective practices into one’s daily routine, one can gradually enhance the ability to sense & interpret the subtle signals from within.
Here are some practical tips to support you in developing & strengthening this essential skill ::
Mindful Breathing: Practice paying attention to your breath. Notice the sensation of air entering & leaving your nostrils. Observe any changes in your breathing patterns and how they correlate with your emotions.
Body Scanning: Regularly perform body scans. Lie down or sit comfortably and focus on different parts of your body, noting any sensations of tension, relaxation, warmth, or coolness.
Meditative Practices: Engage in meditation to enhance your inner awareness. Techniques like mindfulness-based dhyana (meditation) can significantly improve your ability to perceive internal signals.
Yoga, Qigong & Mindful Movement: Incorporate gentle movement practices into your routine. Pay attention to how your body feels in different postures & movements.
Journaling: Keep a journal to document your internal experiences. Writing down your sensations, emotions, and thoughts can help deepen your connection to your inner state.
Regular Check-Ins: Set aside time throughout your day for brief check-ins with your Self. Ask your Self the questions listed above to gauge your internal state.
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By nurturing one’s interoceptive awareness, one develops a deeper connection with Self, leading to more mindful choices and a harmonious balance between inner & outer worlds.
Here’s to continued growth, healing, and thriving, together!
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For those of you who’d like to dive deeper, I highly recommend the work of Kelly Mahler, a licensed occupational therapist who shares a natural understanding of interoception as well as her recommendations for how we can support others. - Learn More
Your body is constantly speaking to you, do you have the tools to listen?
True health is not found in an external checklist, but in the profound dialogue between your physical body and your conscious awareness.
If you're ready to quiet the noise and reconnect with your Self, I invite you to book a complimentary consultation. This initial meeting is an opportunity to explore your needs before we begin the work of strengthening your inner "signal": a journey that leads to greater emotional resilience, personal alignment, and lasting Self-empathy.
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Jess Marie 🌻
CVC, CAHC, INHC, e-RYT
Jess is a multi-certified, multi-faceted Vedic professional & business consultant. She offers wellness offerings to support those seeking a more holistic & integrative approach to healing, as well as business support services for professionals in the health, wellness & spirituality fields.
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