We humans frequently rely on our gut instinct to help us make decisions, and it’s no wonder that when we follow our hunch: we get the outcome we desire.

 

Fundamentally, the vagus nerve is the information highway between the brain and the gut, and our stomach is often dubbed as being our second brain. Perhaps that’s why we have a sixth sense, which is often buried deep within our subconscious minds…

 

It’s only in recent years that scientists have understood how the human gut microbiomes, or good bacteria, affect our entirely physiology: physically and emotionally. And, whilst I’m no expert in this subject, I know that by consciously consuming recommended fermented foods, known to promote good gut health: – that I feel more in tune with my physical body. I have been drinking kefir daily for two years, and my relationship between mind, body and spirit seems sharper than it ever has before.

 

I’ve realised that it’s not just instinct that resides in our tummies; it’s also where lost loved ones seem to help guide us. In the same way that we might be silent in a forest, in order to see a deer, we can utilize our clever guts as a conduit for their love and support.

 

By becoming mindful about this, coupled with losing many key members of my family, is extremely comforting and helpful.

 

We don’t necessarily have to have a spiritual belief, in order to make use of this human function. To simply be reminded that we all have this super ability, and that it’s readily available in all of us, is the purpose of my post. This is because, especially during festive occasions, we can feel lost without those we love, who have passed away. We miss them dearly, and yearn for their advice and guidance.

I’m well-rehearsed with such feelings: I lost my dad when I was young, and my step father, and many others that pain me to list.

 

But that doesn’t stop me tapping into stomach in order to receive their thoughts: guessed or otherwise, and it’s a resource I’ve used for decades, which frankly has helped prevent me from falling prey to feelings of depression.

 

So, how can you start to apply this to you, and to ease your sense of loneliness. Because at Christmas -time, every television station is plastered with chocolate-box depictions of happy whole families, and every supermarket is geared-up similarly.

 

Set some time aside for solitude, it could be in the bath, shower, or in bed. Or, go for a walk and sit among nature. Pop on some classical music, I find Chopin really helpful, and think of one of your problems: – matching it to your lost loved one, who would have normally been your rock or shoulder.

 

If you’re new to this notion, then I find doing so on an empty stomach seems to optimize your “results”. Therefore, if you fancy giving it a go tonight, try to have your last meal by 6pm, and personally I prefer doing so in bed. This way you can place one hand on your stomach, the other on your heart. Next, do some simple deep-breathing exercises: breathe in through your nose to the count of four, and exhale through pursed-lips to the count of eight. Repeat four times, and try not to wiggle.  Then ask your loved for the advice or comfort you seek, and trust in your own ability that you will be able to “hear” them.

 

When we’ve enjoyed a close relationship with someone who has passed away; in life, we’ve listened to them far more than we’re consciously aware of. We know in our subconscious minds what they’d be saying to us, and we simply need reminding.

 

Similarly, with new problems, when we’re in this relaxed state of mind, we can become a conduit for their love. We can gain a sense of the sort of advice that they’d wish to bestow on us. It can literally be as though they are still present in our lives. It can bolster your sense of mental wellness, and help to equip you with strength and resilience.

 

Lastly, if the top recommended fermented foods make you feel green at the gills, then don’t forget that plain, or Greek yogurt also belongs to this group. And, in my opinion, even if you wish to add honey or jam to it, by consuming it regularly will positively improve your gut health.

 

I hope you find this helpful.

 

SUNNY wishes,

 

Emma x