When we strengthen our connection to our person, we also
strengthen our connection to our world. Because whoever we are as a person radiates out into the world around us.
To be able to heal and to grow as a person, it’s important to build an attentive, compassionate relationship—a strong connection—with your self and with your body. One way to build that strong relationship is to treat your body like you would your best friend.
You and your body have no choice but to go through this life together. Your body is your ultimate BFF—your Body Friend Forever.
Communicate with your body on a daily basis. Show it compassion and empathy, and tell it you are grateful for everything it does for you—like you would do with a friend. When a part of your body is in pain, acknowledge that pain and ask it if there is anything you can do to help.
You may feel silly communicating with your body, but research suggests that showing compassion and empathy and building relationships can help people to feel better and can reduce stress, anxiety and depression. The Scientific American MIND March-April (2013) issue references many such studies:
- A 2008 study of patients with irritable bowel syndrome found that those who received a placebo along with a heavy dose of attention, empathy and interaction from the practitioner fared better than those offered no conversation (62 per cent versus 44 per cent). (p.39)
- Separate studies have found that social interactions and moments of bonding can help modulate emotions like fear and help to reduce stress, anxiety, depression and mood disorders. (p.61)
- It is also a well documented fact that a close network of friends and family can insulate us from the most damaging effects of stress. (p.61)
In our workshops, we focus on strengthening your relationship with your self and with your body because building a strong inner relationship is essential to be able to move forward in your life.
Our body is our lifelong patient and friend. Imagine the impact we can have by offering our body daily doses of attention, compassion, interaction and bonding.
Touchy Subjects 