The Power of Observation
Anselm Adodo is the Director of Africa Centre for Integral…
Listening to the Whispers of our Bodies
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to forget about our bodies. Because our lives can be so busy, we often don’t pay attention to what our bodies are trying to tell us. But if we learn to pay attention to our bodies, we can learn a lot about our physical and mental health.
Observing the body allows us to strengthen the mind-body connection, which is an intimate relationship between our physical senses, thoughts, and emotions. By paying attention to the subtle signals and sensations within our bodies, we can better comprehend how our thoughts and emotions affect our physical health. This heightened awareness enables us to make deliberate decisions that promote equilibrium, harmony, and overall health.
Because of the disconnection between our mind and body, we are frequently unaware of our anger and resentment. Never allow your wrath, resentment, bitterness, and evil thoughts to control you. Recognizing that these emotions exist is the first step towards releasing yourself from their grip. Simply observe and acknowledge their presence.
Our bodies possess an innate intelligence that communicates with us via sensations and symptoms. By observing and listening to these signals, it is possible to detect prospective health problems early on.
Regular self-examination, including the observation of skin changes, the recognition of unusual pain or distress, and the monitoring of vital signs, enables us to take proactive measures to maintain our health and seek medical attention when necessary.
Remember that you are your own best physician. A physician is merely a health advisor. They base their advice on what you tell them. The doctor does not reside in your body. You are a resident there. You are the authority on your body.
Each organism is unique, with its own set of needs and restrictions. By observing our bodies, we are able to recognize patterns, preferences, and limitations. This self-awareness enables us to make well-informed decisions regarding nutrition, exercise, sleep, and self-care practices that promote our well-being. Observation cultivates a heightened sense of self-care and self-compassion by heightening our sensitivity to what our bodies require.
Observing the body is a potent stress-reduction and relaxation technique. When we focus on our bodies, we become aware of tension, holding patterns, and uncomfortable areas. By consciously releasing tension through techniques such as deep breathing, stretching, and mindfulness practices, we can increase our sense of comfort and relaxation. Observing the body also enables us to become attuned to the rhythm of our respiration, which promotes a state of calm and centering.
Observing the body allows us to exist in the present moment. When you have a toothache or a headache, you can be entirely distracted and preoccupied by the pain. The pain drags you to the present moment. As soon as the pain subsides, the mind shifts its attention to either the past or the future. The past, however, is gone, and the future is only a thought away. Observing your heartbeat, respiration, and physical sensations brings you into the present moment. This observation reduces tension and promotes relaxation.
Observing the body helps cultivate body positivity and acceptance in a society that is frequently preoccupied with external appearances. We learn to appreciate and applaud the diversity and resilience of our bodies by shifting our focus from societal ideals to their unique characteristics.
Through observation, we gain a deeper understanding of our bodies’ strengths, beauty, and innate intelligence, nurturing a positive body image and a sense of self-assurance. Those shoes are destroying your legs and throwing off your balance, but you continue to wear them because others admire them. You devote your existence to pleasing individuals who can never be satisfied. You do not enjoy wearing excessive makeup, but you do so because you believe people will admire you more if you do. Why not embrace footwear and clothing that bring you liberation and comfort? The choice is yours to make.
As we embark on a journey towards holistic wellness and self-discovery, let us embrace the art of observation by treating our bodies with compassion, respect, and gratitude.
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Anselm Adodo is the Director of Africa Centre for Integral Research and Development, Nigeria and founder of Arica's foremost herbal research Institute, the Pax Herbal Clinic and Research Laboratories (Paxherbals). His research interest is Phytomedicine, Taxonomy of African medicinal plants, indigenous knowledge systems, rural community development, Africanized economic models, health policy reform, and education transformation in Africa. Apart from publications in journals, magazines, national dailies and peer-reviewed journals, Anselm has written more than ten books. He is an adjunct visiting lecturer at the Institute of African Studies, University of Ibadan, Nigeria, an Adjunct Research Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Botanists, a Research Associate at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa, and an adjunct professor at Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.