Your Body Knows Before Your Brain Does

Ever get that weird flutter in your stomach right before something big happens? Or that “ugh” tension in your shoulders after a stressful meeting? Surprise—your body is basically a tiny psychic, sending you signals about what’s going on inside before your brain even figures it out.

We usually try to ignore these little nudges—telling ourselves we’re just “stressed” or “tired”—but your body doesn’t lie. That tight chest or jittery feeling is trying to say something important. Paying attention can clue you in on your emotions, boundaries, and even old patterns you didn’t realize were lurking under the surface.

Here’s a playful challenge: next time your body reacts, name it! Is it anxiety? Excitement? Maybe a mix of both? Just noticing can be like flexing an emotional muscle—you’re tuning in, connecting, and giving yourself a little extra awareness (and maybe some self-compassion too).

For anyone curious about taking this to the next level, Dr. Jen Rappin’s book, The Feeling Muscle, is all about learning to listen to your body and strengthen your emotional awareness—because yes, your body really does know what’s up.