Have you ever wondered how, during a ZB session, you just know something? For example, you just know when to move on from a pause, or that you need to do an extra pass through the ribs? How did you know? Let’s have a cup of tea or a glass of wine together and think about this! [Read more]

Is it because we have knowledge we aren’t aware of, gained through experience? Years ago, I spent July 4th with friends, including a great little 8-year-old boy. There was a sudden thunderstorm in the early afternoon and he became distraught because he thought that meant there would be no fireworks that evening. The adults tried to comfort him by saying, “Don’t worry. The storm will be over long before the fireworks start.” His response was, “But how do you know?” 

That question made me reflect on how I did know. And I realized I knew because I’d lived through many more summers than he had and knew from experience that summer storms in Boston can come and go fairly quickly. 

So there’s an argument to be made that once you are experienced giving ZBs, there are things you may know without being consciously aware that you know. And becoming more conscious about what your experience tells you may deepen the presence and skill you bring to your ZB sessions. 

What about those times when you just know and, even with reflection, can’t put your finger on why? 

I had this type of experience once while working with a Physical Therapy home care patient. He wasn’t feeling well and although his vital signs were a little low, there didn’t seem to be anything significantly wrong. I called his doctor and his doctor agreed that things seemed OK. But something still felt off to me. Before we ended the call, the doctor asked, “What does your gut tell you?” I replied, “I think something’s very wrong.” Based on my answer, the doctor instructed the patient to go to the Emergency Room. It turned out the patient in fact had something seriously wrong and his trip to the hospital helped him receive timely and critical medical treatment. 

I don’t know how I knew. I still don’t. What I do know is I had a body-felt sense that somehow lent credence to my knowledge and helped me trust it. I still remember that feeling, although I don’t think I can describe it. I can, however, recognize it when it happens. 

So while we may not be able to figure out how we know, it may be possible to identify internal feedback signals that happen at the same time. So perhaps we can identify when we know!

Lastly, I’m curious about the beliefs we may have about this knowing. My own belief is that knowing does not elevate me or make me particularly special or skilled. I believe this type of knowing experience is available to all of us. The trick is recognizing the experience and trusting that it’s real. Keeping an open mind and waiting to see if you get any confirming feedback. I also think it’s important to focus on remaining in service so the experience is less about you and more about your client. 

Do you get a body signal when you “just know” something? Do you receive information but don’t trust it? Are you clear that you are at Interface, meaning you know what’s yours and what’s theirs? Do you have a belief that other people might have this ability but you don’t, thus disempowering yourself? Food for thought!

I hope you find this process of self-reflection worthwhile!  Let me know how it goes!