Somatics
Beyond the Mind: Exploring the Depths of Being “In Body”
Do you ever feel like you’re running on autopilot? Like you’re going through the motions of life, present but not truly engaged? I remember a period in my own life when this feeling was constant. I’d wake up, head to work, answer emails, attend meetings, all with a strange sense of detachment. It was as if I were observing myself from above, a passive participant in my own life. This feeling of being “out of body” became overwhelming, and I knew something had to change.
This experience wasn’t unique to me. Feeling disconnected from ourselves, both physically and emotionally, can be a major symptom of burnout. When stress becomes chronic, our bodies and minds go into survival mode, numbing our emotions and disconnecting us from the present moment. This disconnection, however, hinders our ability to heal and move forward. The key to overcoming burnout and reclaiming control lies in reconnecting with ourselves, in coming back “into our bodies.”
What Does It Mean to Be "In Body" and "Out of Body"?
“Can you feel your body?” My therapist’s seemingly simple question caught me off guard. I was in the midst of recounting a stressful situation, dissecting it with sharp intellectual analysis, when his inquiry stopped me in my tracks. “Feel my body?” I repeated, the question hanging heavy in the air.
Looking back, I realize I hadn’t been feeling my body at all. My experience was purely mental, devoid of the physical sensations that often accompany emotions. My anger, frustration, and stress remained trapped in the realm of thought, disconnected from the physical reality of my body. This “out-of-body” experience, as I later learned, was a symptom of chronic stress and emotional disconnect.
Being “in body” goes beyond simply having a physical form. It means being present in the moment, fully connected to your physical sensations, thoughts, and emotions. It’s about experiencing the world through your senses, feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin, the tightness in your shoulders when stressed, the flutter of excitement in your chest. It’s about acknowledging your emotions not just intellectually, but also as embodied experiences: the knot in your stomach from anxiety, the surge of energy with joy, the deep sigh of contentment.
Being “out of body,” on the other hand, is the feeling of disconnection from oneself. It’s the sense of going through the motions on autopilot, feeling like an observer in your own life. We’ve all experienced this to some degree: scrolling mindlessly through social media, zoning out during conversations, neglecting to eat until we’re ravenous. These everyday occurrences, while seemingly harmless, can become a pattern of disengagement.
Imagine sitting on a park bench, lost in thought about your to-do list. You’re “out of body” if you’re unaware of the coolness of the breeze, the chatter of birds, or the feeling of the sun on your skin. Conversely, being “in body” is noticing these sensations, allowing them to connect you to the present moment and enhance your experience. Being “in body” doesn’t just mean feeling physical sensations, but also being aware of your thoughts and emotions as they arise, understanding how they connect to your bodily experience, and responding in a mindful way.
Why Do We Feel "Out of Body"?
The feeling of being “out of body” often stems from chronic stress and overwhelm. When we face constant pressure and challenges, our nervous system can become overloaded. As a coping mechanism, we may subconsciously dissociate, or detach from our immediate experience. This disconnection can manifest as feeling numb, emotionally unavailable, or like we’re on autopilot.
While disassociation may offer temporary relief, it ultimately hinders our ability to heal. By ignoring physical sensations and emotional signals, we perpetuate the stress cycle. Our bodies remain in a heightened state of alertness, even when the perceived threat is no longer present. Imagine ignoring a throbbing toothache: the pain might seem manageable for a while, but neglecting it won’t make it go away. Similarly, ignoring the physical and emotional signals of stress can worsen the underlying issue.
Beyond chronic stress, other factors can contribute to feeling “out of body.” These include:
- Trauma: Past traumatic experiences can lead to disassociation as a way to manage overwhelming emotions.
- Sleep deprivation: Lack of sleep can impair our ability to focus and be present in the moment, contributing to a feeling of disconnection.
- Anxiety and panic disorders: These conditions can cause intense physical sensations and emotional states, leading to feelings of disconnection as a coping mechanism.
- Lack of proper nutrition: When our bodies are deprived of essential nutrients, it can affect our energy levels, focus, and overall well-being, potentially contributing to a feeling of dissociation.
Understanding the various reasons why we might feel “out of body” is crucial. It allows us to approach the issue with compassion and understanding. By recognizing the signs of disconnection, we can begin to develop healthier coping mechanisms and reconnect with ourselves on a deeper level. However, it’s important to remember that while understanding the “whys” can be helpful, dwelling on the reasons for feeling “out of body” can be counterproductive. Overanalyzing and getting lost in the past can actually push us further into dissociation, hindering our ability to connect with the present moment and take action towards healing. Instead of getting stuck in the realm of thought, the key lies in gently bringing our awareness back to the body, experiencing our present reality through our senses, and developing practices that foster connection within ourselves. This shift in focus can empower us to move beyond “out of body” experiences and cultivate a more grounded, present, and embodied way of being.
The Dangers of Staying "Out of Body"
While the initial feeling of disconnection may seem like a temporary escape from stress, staying “out of body” can have significant negative consequences on our mental and physical health, as well as our overall well-being.
One common danger is the overuse of intellectualization as a coping mechanism. When we constantly analyze and rationalize our emotions, we disconnect ourselves from the raw experience of feeling. This can lead to a sense of emotional numbness and difficulty connecting with others authentically. Over time, it can even evolve into a more serious form of dissociation, where we become completely detached from our physical and emotional reality, existing solely in the realm of the mind. This state of existing solely in the mind is often where we begin to experience panic attacks, or severe anxiety disorders. When we’re so disconnected from our bodies and unable to access our physical sensations, it can lead to feelings of intense fear, detachment, and a loss of control, ultimately worsening our mental state.
Furthermore, staying “out of body” can significantly impact our mental and physical health. Disconnection can exacerbate existing conditions like stress, anxiety, and depression. It can also hinder our ability to manage difficult emotions in a healthy way, potentially leading to unhealthy coping mechanisms. Additionally, when we’re not fully present in our bodies, we tend to neglect our physical well-being. We might skip meals, neglect exercise, or indulge in unhealthy habits, further straining our physical health and creating a vicious cycle.
Beyond the direct impact on health, the most significant danger of staying “out of body” lies in the missed opportunities for connection and joy. When we’re on autopilot, we miss out on the richness of life’s experiences. We become passive observers of our own lives, unable to fully engage in the present moment and connect with the world around us. We miss out on the simple pleasures: the warmth of the sun on our skin, the taste of a delicious meal, the laughter shared with loved ones. By staying “out of body,” we shut ourselves off from the possibility of joy, intimacy, and authentic connection.
Therefore, it’s crucial to recognize the dangers of staying “out of body” and actively seek ways to reconnect with ourselves on a deeper level. The next section will explore various techniques to cultivate a more grounded and present state of being, paving the way for a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Bringing Yourself Back "In Body"
The good news is that the journey back to being “in body” is possible. By incorporating various practices into your daily life, you can cultivate a sense of groundedness, reconnect with your physical sensations, and foster a more present and embodied way of being. Here are some powerful tools to get you started:
Mindfulness Practice- "Name It & Tame It"
This simple yet powerful exercise can help you reconnect with your physical and emotional state. Begin by sitting comfortably in a quiet space, taking a few deep breaths to settle your mind and body. Then, focus your attention on different parts of your body, one at a time. Notice any physical sensations you experience, such as tightness, warmth, tingling, or relaxation. Name these sensations out loud: “I feel tension in my shoulders,” or “I feel warmth in my hands.” This process of naming your sensations can help bring them into your awareness and reduce their intensity.
Body Scan Meditations
Body scan meditation is a powerful tool for cultivating inner awareness and reconnecting with your physical sensations. In this practice, you lie down comfortably and systematically scan your body with your attention, noticing any sensations you experience in different parts, such as tightness, warmth, tingling, or relaxation. By focusing on these sensations without judgment, you can begin to release tension and cultivate a sense of calmness and presence. This practice not only helps you become more aware of your physical state but also allows you to observe your thoughts and emotions with greater detachment, fostering a deeper sense of being “in body” and present in the moment.
Movement & Embodiment
Engaging in regular physical activity, whether it’s dancing, swimming, yoga, or simply taking a brisk walk, can be incredibly grounding. Moving your body helps release physical tension, improves mood, and promotes a sense of embodiment. Additionally, movement therapies like somatic experiencing or dance therapy can be powerful tools for processing your emotions through movement and reconnecting with your body in a safe and supportive environment.
Exploring Movement With Feldenkrais
Feldenkrais offers a unique approach to reconnecting with your body through gentle, mindful movement sequences. Unlike traditional exercise, Feldenkrais focuses on exploring subtle movements and variations, inviting you to become more aware of your body’s range of motion and how you use it in daily life. Through gentle exploration, you can discover patterns of tension or limited movement and gradually learn to move with more ease and efficiency. This process of mindful movement awareness can be incredibly grounding, fostering a deeper mind-body connection and promoting a sense of being “in body.”
Connecting With Your Senses
Engaging your senses can be a powerful way to come back “in body.” Practices like mindful eating encourage you to slow down, savor the taste and texture of your food, and appreciate the nourishment it provides. Spending time in nature can also be immensely grounding. Immersing yourself in sunlight, fresh air, and the sounds of nature can help you feel more connected to the present moment and your physical surroundings.
Additionally, engaging in creative pursuits like painting, playing music, or writing can allow you to express yourself and connect with different senses, fostering a deeper mind-body connection.
Remember, the journey of being “in body” is a continuous process. It takes practice and patience to cultivate a state of groundedness and presence. However, by incorporating these tools into your daily life, along with “Name it to Tame It” and other mindfulness practices, you can create a more enriching and fulfilling experience, both in being and connecting with the world around you.
Conclusion: Reclaiming Your Presence, One Step at a Time
Throughout this post, we’ve explored the concepts of being “in body” and “out of body,” highlighting their connection to burnout. We’ve learned that feeling “out of body,” characterized by disconnection from our physical and emotional selves, can be a symptom of chronic stress and overwhelm. However, it’s important to remember that this state is not permanent, and we all have the capacity to cultivate a more grounded and present experience.
The journey back to being “in body” might not be linear, but it’s a journey worth taking. When I first started exploring this path, I was experiencing five or more panic attacks a day, and constant brain fog clouded my thinking. Now, through the practices mentioned above, I’ve gained the ability to quickly tap into my physical sensations, further understand my emotions by feeling them in my body, and ultimately let them go.
This experience has been a powerful testament to the human capacity for healing and transformation. By incorporating these tools into your life, you can begin to reconnect with yourself on a deeper level, manage stress more effectively, and cultivate a sense of peace and well-being. Remember, even the smallest steps towards “being in body” can have a profound impact on your overall experience of life. So, start exploring, experiment with different practices, and find what works best for you. You are not alone on this journey, and you have the power to reclaim your presence, one mindful moment at a time.
In this journey of understanding the profound impact of cortisol on chronic pain, we have unveiled the intricate relationship between stress and our pain perception. Cortisol, as the primary stress hormone, plays a pivotal role in modulating pain sensitivity and processing, influencing how we experience and endure chronic pain.
Unlock the body’s wisdom and embark on a transformative journey of healing and self-discovery through somatic therapy. Your mind and body hold immense potential for growth and well-being, and somatic therapy offers a pathway to unlock this potential. Embrace the integration of body and mind, and experience the transformative power of somatic therapy on your path to holistic well-being.mTogether, armed with knowledge and resilience, we can tame the cortisol-beast, break free from the stress-pain cycle, and embrace a life that thrives despite chronic pain.
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Caroline
As a tech industry professional, she experienced the detrimental effects of burnout and chronic pain firsthand. Motivated by her own journey, she now dedicates herself to assisting others in finding resources and support.
Caroline Who?
As tech industry professional, Caroline experienced the detrimental effects of burnout and chronic pain firsthand. Motivated by her own journey, she now dedicates herself to assisting others in finding resources and support. Through The Happy Soup, Caroline shares resources and personal stories, providing a roadmap for recovery and offering a guiding hand to those facing similar challenges. With a compassionate approach, she inspires individuals to reclaim their lives, emphasizing that they are not alone in their struggles.