The Dynamics of Somatic Tracking: Listening to Your Body

Understanding Your Body Relationship

In somatic tracking, which means sensing the body, feeling the body, and tracking sensation, it's important to notice what kind of relationship you maintain with your body. If you experience pain in the neck, shoulder, back, or butt, it's essential to observe. Are you communicating to that body part sentiments like "go away," "you're bad," "you're wrong," or "don't do this"?

Take a moment to understand the dynamic you've established with your body. I guesstimate that most people often admonish their bodies with words like "stop hurting me," "you're the issue," or "you're wrong." But in reality, your body is just reaching out, signaling for assistance.

Reframing the Conversation with Your Body

Switching the narrative from blaming, condemning, and criticizing the body to actively listening and being amiable with it can play a pivotal role in healing. Perhaps, this transition might be the very first step - acknowledging and lending an ear to what your body communicates. A colleague of mine says that when the body is in pain, it's a cry for love. I tend to agree with that.

There have been instances in my life where I endured consistent pain in my hip. I've had periods of years of relief. I also had prolonged durations of discomfort. In such moments, I often ponder, "Okay, body, what do I need to know?" This rapport with the body is super important. Approach your body with compassion, curiosity, and a genuine intent to listen. Question your body, "Do you have any needs?" or "Is there something you want to tell me?"

When you speak to your body in this blend of compassion and inquisitiveness towards your body, it lays the foundation for a healing dynamic. It's a transition  out of the battle and into cooperation.

Moving Beyond the Victim Narrative

Often, we get ensnared in this victim-persecutor relationship, not just in life but also in how we perceive our bodies. Thoughts like "my body is causing me pain" or feeling at the mercy of one's own body are not uncommon. The challenge is to obliterate this narrative and cultivate a fresh perspective. It's about partnering with your body, collaboratively understanding its needs, and identifying its signals.

The body is an abundant reservoir of insights. If I ever find myself at crossroads, deliberating over an issue, and my mind's all over the place, I grant myself 5 minutes to think. After which, I drop myself into the body's sensations, for that's where the genuine, constructive answers reside.

I encourage you to try that this week. I look forward to seeing you soon. .