When My Body Chose

When I was anxious, it felt as if I had lost access to what I wanted. Even simple choices became difficult. At restaurants, for example, I couldn’t tell what I felt like eating. I would think about it for a long time and still wouldn’t feel sure. But these days, especially when I feel more connected to myself, something feels different. It’s as if an inner source becomes available again. I can feel what I want more clearly, and my body seems to know before my mind catches up. In those moments, choosing feels easier. And I feel a little closer to myself.

A scientific note

Research on embodied decision making suggests that choices often become easier when internal bodily signals are easier to access. Anxiety can interfere with this process, making decisions feel more difficult.

Paulus, M. P., & Stein, M. B. (2006). An Insular View of Anxiety. Biological Psychiatry, 60(4), 383–387.