Your Body is Talking

Are You Listening?

Stevie Whitby

11/7/20251 min read

woman in yellow and red crew neck t-shirt
woman in yellow and red crew neck t-shirt

It starts subtly. A tightness in your chest, a flutter in your stomach, or a sudden headache that pops up out of nowhere. You tell yourself it’s nothing - but your body keeps nudging you. These sensations aren’t random. They’re your nervous system sending messages about stress, overwhelm, or unmet needs.

What’s Really Happening

Your body is always talking. Every signal - tension, fatigue, jitteriness - is information. It’s a way your nervous system says, “Hey, pay attention. Something’s happening here.” For neurodivergent or highly sensitive people, these signals can be stronger, faster, or more intense. Ignoring them might feel easier in the moment, but over time it adds up, leading to overwhelm, emotional spikes, or even burnout.

Why It Matters

When we ignore our body’s messages, we risk exhaustion, anxiety, and disconnection from ourselves. But when we listen - really notice the signals - we gain early warning signs and opportunities to regulate before overwhelm hits. Your body isn’t the enemy; it’s a guide.

A Simple Tool to Tune In

Try a 3-step mini “body check-in”:

1. Pause: Stop for a moment and take a deep breath.

2. Scan: Gently notice where your body feels tense, tight, or uncomfortable.

3. Name & Respond: Say quietly to yourself, “I feel [tension/fatigue/etc] and I need [rest/breathing/movement/etc].”

Even small acknowledgment can calm your nervous system and prevent overload.

Reassurance

Your body speaks for you even when your mind is busy. Listening isn’t indulgent; it’s essential. By tuning in to these signals, you honor your experience, protect your energy, and start building a relationship with yourself that is compassionate, grounded, and resilient.