What to Do If You Feel Numb When You Tune Into Your Body
Have you ever tried to tune into your body—only to come up blank?
No feelings. No clear signals. Just… nothing?
If so, you’re not alone. And more importantly, you’re not doing anything wrong.
For many people, especially those who’ve experienced chronic stress, trauma, or high-functioning survival mode, disconnection from the body is a protective response. It’s how your system learned to stay safe.
Disconnection is protection. And the good news? That connection isn’t gone. It’s just waiting to be rebuilt.
This is something I support my clients with all the time, and one of the first things we do is slow down and approach the body with curiosity, not pressure.
Whether you feel completely numb or just unsure what to look for, here are 5 gentle questions to help you start reconnecting with yourself:
1. What sensations do I notice, even if they’re subtle or outside my body (like the chair or the floor)?
Sometimes, the clearest sensations aren’t inside the body, they’re external. Notice the pressure of your back on the chair, your feet on the floor, or the temperature of the air. These are all valid entry points into awareness.
2. Is there a part of my body that feels the most neutral or just slightly different than “nothing” or “numb”?
Start with the place that feels least charged. “Neutral” is a great place to build from. If everywhere feels flat, see if there’s one area that’s just a little bit different.
3. If my body could speak, what might it be trying to say right now?
This isn’t about “getting it right.” It’s about tuning into your inner language. Maybe your body is saying, “I’m overwhelmed,” or “Please slow down.” Let the answers be intuitive, not intellectual.
4. What happens if I place one hand on my chest or belly? What do I sense now?
Physical touch can be a gentle way to bring attention and comfort to a disconnected area. You don’t have to feel anything right away. Just notice what (if anything) shifts.
5. What would it feel like to approach my body with curiosity instead of pressure?
This question alone can change the whole experience. When we let go of the need to “feel something” and simply show up with kindness, our system often starts to soften on its own.
Feeling “Nothing” Is Still a Response
The absence of sensation is information. It’s your body communicating in the only way it knows how right now.
The goal isn’t to force feeling. It’s to gently rebuild trust with your body over time.
This process doesn’t require perfection. Just small moments of checking in, staying curious, and offering compassion, even (especially) when you feel numb.
💛 Reconnection is possible. And it’s often much closer than it seems.
About the Author
Shai Maxine is a trained somatic practitioner specializing in helping people navigate stress, chronic pain, and emotional overwhelm. With years of experience guiding clients toward greater ease and connection, Shai offers practical tools rooted in somatic awareness and mindfulness. When not working, Shai enjoys hiking, cooking, creating art, and petting as many dogs as she can. Follow along on instagram @shai.maxine
