Making Friends with Your Body Again

Life’s challenges can sometimes create a sense of disconnect between the mind and body.

Periods of stress, illness, or trauma may leave you feeling distant from your physical self.

Reconnecting with your body is about fostering self-compassion and learning to appreciate what your body continues to do for you.

Bridging the Gap Between Mind and Body

The connection between your mind and body works both ways.

Your thoughts and feelings can affect how your body feels, and physical states can influence your emotions.

For example, when you’re anxious, you may notice tension, pain, or shallow breathing. When you feel calm and content, your body often feels lighter and more at ease.

Some people find that activities like chiropractic care, gentle movement, or focused breathing support a stronger awareness of their body.

Reducing physical tension may help create space to reconnect with how your body feels day to day.

How Tough Times Change How We Feel

Difficult life experiences can affect how we view our bodies.

After illness or trauma, it’s common to feel frustration, discomfort, or even resentment towards the body. You might see your body as a source of pain rather than a place of strength or healing.

It’s important to acknowledge these feelings. Healing the mind-body relationship starts with patience, curiosity, and compassion.

It’s not about rushing to feel differently; it’s about creating a safe, gentle space to rebuild trust in your physical self.

Simple Ways to Feel More Settled

Small daily actions can help you feel more grounded and at ease in your body.

Body Scan Meditation

Lie down in a quiet space and slowly bring your attention to each part of your body. Notice sensations without judgement, just observe.

Grounding Exercises

Stand barefoot on natural ground and focus on the contact between your feet and the earth. Visualise roots extending downwards, anchoring you.

Self-Massage

Gently massage your hands, feet, neck, or any area that feels tense. This can help you feel more physically present and cared for.

Warm Baths

Soaking in warm water can help muscles relax and support a calm nervous system.

Time in Nature

Being outdoors, among trees, fresh air, or natural light, can help restore a sense of calm and connection.

Getting Comfortable in Your Own Skin

Rebuilding a positive relationship with your body involves acceptance and appreciation. This doesn’t mean loving every part of how you look.

It means acknowledging your body as it is, and respecting all that it allows you to do.

Challenge Negative Thoughts

If you notice critical thoughts about your body, pause and reflect. Can you replace them with something more realistic or kind?

Focus on Function

Think about what your body helps you achieve. Walking, hugging, laughing, stretching, your body makes all of it possible.

Practise Self-Compassion

Treat yourself as you would treat a close friend going through the same experience. Offer yourself patience and understanding.

Celebrate Movement

Find ways to move that feel good, dance, stretch, or walk in nature. These moments can help build a stronger connection with your physical self.

By returning to your body with compassion and attention, you can begin to feel more at home within yourself.

This process takes time, but small steps make a meaningful difference.