The physical body is like a biological computer. It is composed of innumerable components and stores many things in its vast memory. Though we try to rid ourselves of illnesses in the form of viruses, diseases, and aches and pains, these, too, are a part of the human computer. The mind-body system is miraculous, utilizing everything in its control to send us signs. Chronic pain can be a sign of discord, infection a sign of exhaustion or emotional repression, and a sour stomach a sign of anger or stress. Many illnesses are manifest into being through our own actions or inactions, bottled-up worries, or inability to feel deserving. Because your body will not lie to you, it is often possible to not only become well, but to treat the underlying root of the illness, by tuning into it. Essentially, it is another part of your body and, as such, can be communicated with.

If all people were to live lovingly, positively, and naturally, there would no doubt be less sickness. But, in this age of heavy workloads, complicated interpersonal communications, indoor activities, and pollution, the body begs to be consulted when illness strikes. When you feel sickness coming on or if you have been dealing with sickness for a long period of time, take time out of your day to sit quietly and relax deeply. When you have reached a state of intense relaxation, ask that which plagues you (be it virus, bacteria, or pain) what it wants. Talk to it as if it was an entity within you and have a conversation with it. But it is important to listen after you have posed your question; your body has all of the answers. If nothing is immediately forthcoming, ruminate on your life as of late. Are you avoiding a stressful situation or unconsciously seeking sympathy? That could be the case, but the answer you receive may not necessarily be profound, and it can be specifi! c or somewhat vague. What your sickness tells you may be surprising. However, when you have acknowledged and accepted the answer, your recovery will be swift.

Tuning into your illness can help you learn new, more effective, adaptive, and powerful ways of dealing with sickness. Putting one's faith in the ability of the mind to heal the body and vice versa is an important step on the journey toward lasting self healing.