16/06/2025
So… part two!
‘Listen to your body’ and ‘be kind to yourself’ are phrases that can be thrown about a lot, especially in yoga, but often not explained in detail or given reasoning behind the choice of words. (I have 100% done this myself!)
I think a lot of people instantly associate these with going easy on themselves or simply putting in less effort. Sometimes this is exactly what we need, see previous post, but I think we often forget that we might be craving something else.
What if listening to your bodies needs can also mean pushing yourself to move deeper, work harder, run faster because being kind to yourself is strengthening your body.
What if it’s getting up off the sofa and moving because you’ve spent too long in the same position.
Maybe it’s choosing the nutrient dense meal because your body needs nourishment.
Or switching up your work space or going for a walk on your lunch break rather than sitting down.
What if it’s any form of movement that makes you sweat and gives you that endorphin rush.
Perhaps it’s reading a book over another tv series.
Or spending time with friends or loved ones to connect and share.
What if it’s learning something new!
It doesn’t have to be high intensity and it’s certainly not to fit into the picture perfect image we see over and over on social media, but because our bodies crave being strong and healthy! Our minds want to learn and be challenged. We have the capacity to do so much, and be so much more than just the label on our heads, but sometimes WE are what’s getting in our own way! WE are our own worst enemy!
These things are just as important, maybe more important, than the slowing down. Because it’s not always about stopping, it’s just about switching up the routine! Making the most of those moments you’re not working or food shopping.
It’s about finding joy in diversity and nourishment for your mind, body and soul.
**Read that last sentence again!!**
So next time you take a moment to listen to your body, when you might be feeling tired and run down, be sure to consider all your options. Yes, you might want - and need - to simply do nothing. Or maybe it’s that you need to do one of the above 💕