In the world of modern-day technology, it's very easy to become distracted and disconnected. If left unchecked for too long, this disconnection can lead to a 'comfortable numbing' of the body. You may then end up getting used to being 'out of tune' with your body's needs.
This can lead to a slow erosion of your health.
Then… one day, you will get a signal ('symptom') from your body that something is not quite right. This symptom may have been there for awhile, but your choice to ignore it is no longer more important than your body's need for survival, so your body will keep speaking to you again and again.
It may use more words, or speak louder (with more intense signals or 'symptoms') until you 'wake up', pay closer attention, and give your body what it needs.
The key: Don't let yourself get to this state in the first place.
You can do this by making the conscious choice to 'stay connected' each day. Although you may think you feel 'connected' (via your mobile devices, phones, laptops, etc.), this may come at the expense of actually being disconnected to your own technology— your body!
If you allow your focus to shift far outside of yourself on a constant basis, you will lose touch with your body, and your health will suffer.
Here are some simple ways to 'stay connected' and 'tuned in':
1. Breathe consciously- meaning become aware of your breathing. Breath is one of the best tools to bring you back in touch with your body, keep you fully connected, and allow you to be in the present moment. Your breathing will quickly reflect your current state of being. “How you breathe is how you live.”
2. Schedule- have a schedule for your life. Work in blocks of time, and have a plan. Don't jump all over the place. Stay focused, and prioritize what really needs to get done. This will keep you grounded and connected.
3. Nature- touch Nature each day. For example: Plant something in the soil; walk barefoot on the earth; take a stroll through the woods; lie on your back on the ground and gaze at the sky; close your eyes and harmonize with nature's symphony; take a nice sun bath. However you can connect with 'Mother Earth' each day, do it!
4. Reboot- take time each day to rest and reboot. A short mediation works well to help clear your mind and allow your body to discharge. Also, get plenty of sleep each night. If you're sleep deprived, you will become disconnected very quickly.
5. Eat well, stay hydrated, and get sufficient exercise! Consume plenty of raw fruits and veggies and other plant-based foods. Drink plenty of fluids. Move your body (just pick something you enjoy doing, and have fun).
6. Practice 'tuning in' frequently-- this can be done by performing a body scan. A 'body scan' is just another way of saying... becoming more aware and paying attention to your body! This can be done by simply closing your eyes, and shifting your focus inward. You can start at your feet and then move upward toward your head... 'scanning your body'. This will allow you to have a better sense of what is really going on (what you're truly feeling; where you may be holding stress or tension; and what needs attention).
Bottom line: If you disconnect from the very factors that run your body well, then it won't run well!
Good health is about... AWARENESS!
Stay aware of your body.
Commit each day to staying connected!
Love yourself enough to honor this commitment!
Much lOVE,
Dr. SAM- ‘ The Health Raiser!’