The Body Knows

The body knows what?

The body knows when something in its biochemistry set is not functioning properly. It produces pain, an inner knowing, or a feeling that something is not right. The mind has choices on how to manage this: denial, observation, academic research, anecdotal information, self-treatment, and/or a doctor appointment.

I recently overhead a gentleman describe a health issue he’s experiencing. What bothered him most was at each visit within the medical system he was asked his pain level in order to prescribe pain medication. He animated how he did not want a prescription but help with the source of his pain. His frustration is real in that the system wants to prescribe versus discover. This was a person willing to withstand discomfort while investigating the source of his pain. It was empowering to witness a stranger steering the investigation of his health versus giving his power over to a system. While the system provides a portal into discovery, we must remember that our bodies contain intelligence beyond our mental understanding. The body knows best. There comes a point when we need to listen to what our pain is revealing from a deeper, emotional layer.

The path of least resistance is within our human nature. Doing what we’ve always done is easier. However, that day comes when we literally feel the pain of unhealthy habits and emotions. For example, stored anger and loneliness may result in a dis-ease. My mother lost two children. While they passed years apart, soon after the adult daughter died, she experienced breast cancer. However, she died from colon rectal cancer which I know resulted from lots of unexpressed anger. I, personally, had heart problems in my early 40’s that forced me to face a 20-year dysfunctional marriage. Yes, my heart was literally breaking. My mind also took a toll. Denial of emotional issues also shoved me into a 3-year clinically depressed era. The body knows. My body also knew when it was better. I remember that beautiful day when I unexpectedly saw color again and remember when I no longer waited to feel my heart beat in a steady pattern.

Pain and discomfort are an opportunity. Yes, an opportunity to delve into the self and root out what ails you. Will a healthy diet, regular exercise, clean mental hygiene, and a personally aligned spiritual practice heal you completely? Maybe or perhaps not, but they will optimize your well-being and position you within a strong knowing before seeking answers from the medical community.

You know what’s best for you. Communicate openly and honestly with yourself. Be open to what your body is revealing. As a Pilates teacher, I often witness how rebalancing the physical body encourages that communication between the mental, emotional, and physical bodies.