On September 11th, 2001 when an airliner flew into one of the Twin Towers, many people in the second tower began evacuating the building. Then a voice came over the public address system, saying there was no danger and that people should return to their workplaces. Many listened to that voice of authority and returned to their offices. Others ignored it and continued out of the building—a choice that probably saved their lives.

What “told” these people to leave the tower even though an authoritative outer voice was telling them otherwise?  

What we call “intuition,” our inner voice, comes to us in a variety of ways. Intuition sometimes seem to contradict what our physical senses are telling us, so many of us have been taught to ignore it. Learning to recognize and trust your inner wisdom can be life-changing–even life-saving.

Here are four ways of experiencing intuitive knowing. People tend to be stronger in one type of intuition, though all can be present. Being aware of the different forms of intuition, and which one is dominant in you, helps you recognize and act on your inner guidance:

Physical Intuition is often survival-related. You’ve probably experienced this when your five physical senses detected nothing wrong, yet you sensed danger. The hair on the back of your neck stood up and/or your heart raced. Often there’s a feeling in the pit of the stomach–hence the phrase “gut reaction.”

Emotional Intuition comes from a “feeling level.” It is often about relationships.  You feel someone’s sadness or joy even though they don’t show it outwardly. You call a loved one because you just feel something’s wrong—and it is.

Mental Intuition or “Ah-ha” moments, an example of this type of intuition, is most apparent in inventive or creative processes. It’s the insight you suddenly have when mentally working on a problem or puzzle. The answer comes “out of the blue,” often when you take a break from rational problem-solving—maybe even in a dream!

Spiritual Intuition is about accessing your connection to your Higher Power. It can take the form of visions, hearing a voice, clairvoyance–or just “knowing.”  This guidance often has to do with issues like “Why am I here?”; “What’s my next step?”  

“The soul always knows what to do to heal itself. The challenge is to silence the mind.” – Caroline Myss

My clients and students find that Reflexology puts you into a deep state of relaxation to connect with your inner guidance. You are then in the place of allowing your intuition to flow physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

You nurture inner guidance by listening to it and acting on it. Start with an intention to notice your intuitions. Keep an intuition journal. Take up some form of meditation. Activate your right brain through creativity, dancing, painting, ceramics, singing to yourself in the shower!

When your inner voice speaks, listen carefully. It comes from a broader perspective that transcends rational thought and the limits of our five physical senses. Learn to recognize and trust your intuitive senses now and live a happier, more fulfilled and, perhaps, a longer life!