How Body Awareness and Christian Counseling in Chicago Can Deepen Your Connection with God and Relationships

Feeling Connected and Whole

We were created in God's image for connection and wholeness. We all have an innate longing to feel balanced and complete in ourselves and our relationships. However, the inevitable losses and sufferings in life—whether it’s losing loved ones, relationships, jobs, health, safety, rights, or dreams—can make it difficult to stay present and find joy in what we love.

The Impact of Disconnection

Experiencing disconnection can make us feel like we're "not fully here." We may feel detached from our bodies, go through the motions without being truly engaged, or become easily distracted, irritable, on edge, or withdrawn. Even if we understand what's happening intellectually, it can be challenging to connect emotionally. Our minds and bodies often feel out of sync.

Becoming Body-Aware in Christian Counseling

Focusing on our bodies when we're in pain or feeling disconnected may seem counterintuitive, as we naturally want to avoid discomfort. However, avoiding pain only increases our sense of disconnection. 

In some Christian communities, there is a misconception that focusing on our bodies and emotions fosters unhealthy self-reliance and separation from God. But our bodies are God's creation, crafted with care and purpose. Becoming aware of our physical selves can deepen our relationship with God and help us process pain through Christian counseling.

Embracing All Emotions in Christian Counseling 

There's a common belief that some emotions are "good" while others are "bad." Yet, even Jesus experienced a range of emotions and showed vulnerability before God. Emotions, whether pleasurable or painful, are not inherently sinful. They are a vital part of our human experience and offer valuable insights into how we relate to each other and exist in the world.

Our First Language: Body Movement 

Body movement begins in utero and becomes our first language. Through non-verbal expressions, we first create bonds with caregivers, connect, explore, and discover our surroundings. Our bodies help us differentiate from others and set our own boundaries; they also hold our memories, emotions, and stories.

The Bible describes God as a God of boundaries and order (Genesis 1, Proverbs 8:29). Our bodily sensations—signals of safety, danger, limits, and needs—serve as a compass, guiding us to our strengths, gifts, and areas that need healing. Learning to listen to these cues helps us be honest with ourselves, others, and God.

Seeking Help and Guidance through Christian Counseling in Chicago

Sometimes, we need a little extra help to navigate the darker places within us or even to acknowledge that something hurts and that we need support.

As a dance therapist who provides Christian counseling in Chicago, I help clients become more aware of their bodies, so they can connect more deeply with God and themselves. This connection fosters the change they want to see in their relationships.

In Christian counseling, I often encourage clients to slow down and pay attention to their bodies. Being more aware of your body can help you feel more present, less distracted, and more open to experiencing God's presence. For some, this may feel like peace or calm; for others, it might be an image or a Scripture verse. Slowing down and connecting with your body can calm your nervous system, making you more receptive to subtle connections and more aware of God's 'gentle whisper' (1 Kings 19:12 NLT).

Describing physical sensations during sessions can help you organize your emotions and thoughts, discovering new ways to relate and find meaning.

As a dance therapist offering Christian counseling, I also support clients in connecting with God and understanding their relationship patterns through movement and worship dance. Sometimes, words alone can't express the depths of our experiences, but movement can!

Schedule a Free Consultation for Christian Counseling in Chicago

Life’s journey is filled with ups and downs, but you don't have to walk it alone. Christian counseling in Chicago provides a compassionate environment to explore your emotions, understand your body's cues, and strengthen your connection with God. By becoming more in tune with your body and embracing all emotions, you can move toward healing. Remember, your path to wholeness is a cherished journey, and with the right support, you can rediscover the joy that God intended for you.

If you are ready to become more present with your body and deeply connect with God and your relationships, contact me. Schedule your free 15-minute consult today!

Lisaura is a Christian Counselor and Dance Therapist in Chicago specializing in incorporating movement and the mind-body connection to help people heal, improve their relationships, and feel more whole. She offers individual relationship counseling, dance therapy, and couples workshops to help adults connect with themselves and others deeply.

Spanish-speaking services are available.