Tuning Inward: Unlocking Answers You Already Have

If you are feeling confused about your next step, stuck on how to solve a problem, or burdened by a concern, check out this episode. Today, we explore one of the most tried and true solutions to clarify, process, and move forward: how to listen to yourself.

In this episode, we begin our exploration in how to read the signals and messages you are so graciously giving yourself (all of the time!). Each of us is incredibly gifted with messages just waiting to be "read." However, we are often "illiterate" in the language of ourselves and struggle to read what is right there for us. 

Additional Resources:
1. https://nihrecord.nih.gov/2019/06/28/eurich-explores-why-self-awareness-matters

2. Meditation and Neuroplasticity
Study: Tang, Y. Y., Hölzel, B. K., & Posner, M. I. (2015). The neuroscience of mindfulness meditation. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 16(4), 213-225.
Summary: This study explores how meditation, which incorporates elements of self-listening, can lead to neuroplastic changes in the brain. It demonstrates that regular meditation practice increases activity in areas related to self-awareness, emotional regulation, and cognitive control.
These studies collectively suggest that engaging in self-listening practices—whether through mindfulness, self-reflection, or journaling—can have significant psychological and physiological benefits. It can enhance self-awareness, emotional regulation, decision-making, resilience, and overall well-being.

3. Self-Awareness and Decision-Making
Study: Silvia, P. J., & O'Brien, M. E. (2004). Self-awareness and constructive functioning: Revisiting "the human dilemma". Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, 23(4), 475-489.
Summary: This study indicates that self-awareness (a core aspect of self-listening) is linked to better decision-making and problem-solving skills. Individuals who are more aware of their thoughts and feelings tend to make more adaptive and constructive choices, promoting overall well-being.

4. Closeness-Communication bias:In a study published in 2011 by Keysar, Savitsky, and their colleagues, they demonstrated that individuals often communicate less effectively with close friends or partners than they assume, due to this bias. They found that people typically believe they understand their close ones well enough to predict their thoughts and feelings accurately, leading them to take shortcuts in communication. This assumption, however, often results in misunderstandings, highlighting that familiarity doesn't necessarily translate to effective communication.

5. Mindfulness Meditation and Self-Listening
Study: Davidson, R. J., & Kabat-Zinn, J. et al. (2003). Alterations in brain and immune function produced by mindfulness meditation. Psychosomatic Medicine, 65(4), 564-570.
Summary: This study found that mindfulness meditation, which encourages a form of self-listening by focusing on thoughts and sensations, led to changes in brain activity associated with positive affect. It also showed improvements in immune function, demonstrating the physiological benefits of becoming more attuned to oneself.

6. Study: Paulhus, D. L., Harms, P. D., Bruce, M. N., & Lysy, D. C. (2003). The overclaiming technique: Measuring self-enhancement independent of ability. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 84(4), 890-904.
Summary: This study examines how people evaluate their own intelligence and skills. It found that individuals often overestimate their abilities, a phenomenon tied to self-enhancement bias. 

*Chat GPT was used to provide studies

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