Do you ever get those gut feelings but find yourself pushing them to the side because you've been taught to use your rational mind for decision-making?
This gut feeling is your intuition at work!
When we ignore our body's natural response to people, places, or things, we lose out on the tremendous potential that resides within us.
But intuition feels elusive, abstract, and untrustworthy. How can our instincts tell us what's right or wrong?
The truth is our body knows more than we give it credit. So, how can we leverage our intuition?
I've found that the key to using your intuition is first having the desire to want to listen to your higher self. Second, it is about knowing how to discern your emotions from your intuitive voice.
To do this, here are a few things to keep in mind when discerning between your emotions and intuition.
Your intuition is:
Calm. Unlike emotions that may arise from anger, fear, or sadness, intuition emanates as a serene presence. It can manifest as a gentle vibration, a subtle pulse, or a quiet knowing.
Consistent. Intuitive feelings remain steady and unwavering over time. They persist, unaffected by the passing hours or shifts in circumstances.
Non-judgmental. Intuitive insights are devoid of blame, shame, guilt, or criticism. They offer guidance without condemning or evaluating.
Emotions, on the other hand are:
Agitated. Emotions tend to be intense, sharp, and often involve a complex blend of feelings simultaneously.
Inconsistent. Emotions can fluctuate from one day to another or even within a single day, influenced by various factors.
Noisy. Emotions tend to dominate our thoughts, manifesting as inner chatter or externalized through discussions, accompanied by stories and rationalizations.
So, the next time you experience a strong feeling, pay attention and follow these steps:
Tune into your body to identify where the feeling resonates.
Take a few moments to meditate or find stillness, creating a space for introspection.
Question yourself: Is this feeling stemming from intuition, or is it an emotion?
Seek balance with rational thinking. Allow your intuition to complement your analytical thinking so you can make well-rounded decisions that are grounded in both insight and evidence.
If you're interested in further exploring the art of tuning into your intuition, I recommend delving into Sonia Choquette's books on this subject. Happy reading!