Julie Jewels Smoot

We learn to answer when someone calls. We learn to listen when someone wants to talk. We learn to make ourselves available, even when we are exhausted, overwhelmed, or simply longing for silence. Somewhere along the way, we may begin believing that being a good person means always being accessible.

You were born into a body before you ever learned to judge it. Before you knew what a clothing size was. Before you understood beauty standards. Before you compared your shape to someone else's. Before anyone told you what was attractive, acceptable, feminine, masculine, strong, weak, young, old, beautiful, or imperfect.

Reflecting on Inner Wisdom: How Our Bodies Sense Before Our Minds Comprehend.

Imagine that your body is speaking through sensation. Ask gently: "What do you need right now?" Allow the answer to emerge without forcing it. The practice is not about solving. The practice is about listening.