Embodied Listening

Why it works

Embodied listening improves your capacity for genuine human connection by enhancing your presence and building trust in relationships.

How to practice

1. Before the conversation, take 3 deep breaths to center yourself As the other person speaks, notice: - Your own body sensations (tension, openness, resonance) - Their subtle facial expressions and tone shifts - The space/energy between you
2. Practice always keeping 20% of your attention on your own body. Notice if you're contracting, planning your responses, or disconnecting. If your mind drifts, use your breath as an anchor to return. Allow natural pauses in the conversation without rushing to fill them.

Good to know

• Embodied listening may feel slower than your usual conversational pace—that's normal.
• You may notice different forms of listening emerge: - Head listening (analyzing, problem-solving) - Heart listening (emotional resonance) - Gut listening (intuitive knowing)