Deeper Body Connection- A Great Cure For Stress
In this day and age of fast-paced routines, ever-evolving technology, and a societal climate that is, at best, challenging to navigate, it can be easy to disconnect from the body in favor of intellectualizing every experience. However, over time, this experience of separation from our physical existence can create a slew of issues – from chronic pain and fatigue to anxiety and depression.
The benefits of mindful connection with the body are still being discovered and documented, and this is because there are so many of them! Our bodies have immense wisdom within them, and if we take the time to listen, we can learn a great deal.
CBD, or hemp extract, is a newer natural product on that market that has shown some promise in reducing stress and anxiety, and aiding the user in reconnecting with the physical world around them. One popular technique for utilizing CBD and enjoying its benefits is to infuse body oil or lotion with the compound and then rub it directly onto the skin.
CBD lotion and other infused skincare products allow the cannabinoids to interact directly with the blood vessels in the skin (after all, the skin is our largest organ!) and enter the bloodstream. Many people rub CBD-infused skincare products on their hands or feet to experience an immediate relaxing effect and can be especially beneficial when combined with therapeutic massage.
The practice of yoga is a gentle, nourishing way to promote healthy movement of the body’s tissues and eliminate toxins from the body. For centuries, yoga practitioners have passed down the wisdom of the body through postures, breathing techniques, and chanting – all of which are accessible to all bodies, no matter the level of intensity of the class you select.
To better understand what your body and mind need, close, your eyes, take a deep breath and tune in. Ask your body, what do you most need right now? Is it the challenge of learning new postures? The deep release of stress through long, focused stretching? Or a restorative yoga class, spending the most significant amount of time on stillness and letting go?
Whether you respond best to a group environment or on your own, yoga classes are easy to access either online or in a local studio. And many types of practice are available, from focused practices on strength building to restorative yoga, and mindfulness flow practices that are oriented to the breath.
Finally, connecting with nature is a powerful way to activate the heart center, release the burdens of daily life, and rediscover your true purpose. Whether you are taking time in the afternoon for a walk in your neighborhood or planning an overnight weekend hike through the mountains, the benefits of spending time outdoors are many and varied.
Many cultures around the world practice techniques such as “forest bathing”, therapeutic massage, and utilizing natural products to find deeper connection with the body. These and other gentle, nurturing traditions remind us of our place in this physical world; they know that we are all part of this vibrant ecosystem.
The more time we spend cultivating that knowledge – and the compassion that effortlessly grows from that connection – the more abundant our sense of well-being will become.