In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to neglect the quiet conversations we could be having with our own bodies. I recently “threw out my back” and suffered a pinched nerve. I was in excruciating pain for four days. As in the past, when I neglect my body long enough and push myself beyond my limits ignoring the “signals,” my body gives me a wake-up call, by breaking down. But what if I took the time to listen—to truly listen—to what my body is trying to tell me?
Nayyirh Waheed’s profound words, “I said to my body, softly, I want to be your friend…” offer a gentle reminder that our relationship with our bodies should be one of kindness and compassion. This simple yet powerful statement invites us to reconsider how we treat ourselves and to approach our bodies with the same care and respect we would offer a dear friend.
The first step in building this friendship is to listen. Our bodies communicate with us in many ways—through sensations, emotions, and even the way we hold ourselves. By paying attention to these signals, we can gain a deeper understanding of our physical and emotional needs. This might mean noticing when we’re tired and allowing ourselves to rest, or recognizing when we’re stressed and finding ways to relax and unwind.
Another important aspect of this friendship is acceptance. Just as we accept our friends for who they are, we must also learn to accept our bodies as they are. This means letting go of unrealistic expectations and appreciating the unique qualities that make us who we are. It means celebrating the strength, resilience, and beauty of our bodies, rather than focusing on perceived flaws.
Self-care is also a vital component of this relationship. Just as we would nurture a friendship by spending quality time together, we can nurture our relationship with our bodies by engaging in activities that promote physical and mental well-being. This could include regular exercise, a balanced diet, and practices such as meditation or mindfulness that help us stay connected to our inner selves.
The benefits of cultivating a positive relationship with our bodies are immense. When we treat ourselves with kindness and compassion, we experience greater joy and satisfaction in life. We feel more confident, more grounded, and more at peace with ourselves. This inner harmony then radiates outward, allowing us to connect more deeply with others and to spread joy and positivity in our communities.
Ultimately, the relationship we have with our bodies is one of the most important relationships we will ever have. It is a lifelong journey of learning, growth, and self-discovery. By approaching this relationship with an open heart and a willingness to listen, we can create a deep and lasting friendship with ourselves—one that brings us joy, fulfillment, and a sense of true well-being.
Today, I say to my body, softly, “I want to be your friend.” Then, I listen, accept, and care for myself in a way that honors the incredible beings I am. In doing so, I open the door to a life filled with greater joy, connection, and peace. I am grateful.