Are physical sensations meaningful?
Short Answer
They can be informative, but they are not always symbolic. Sensations often reflect stress, posture, or nervous system state. Mindfulness treats sensations as data, not necessarily as messages that must be interpreted. ---
Why This Matters
The body is often the most reliable anchor for mindfulness because sensation updates in real time. Body-based awareness reduces overthinking and increases nervous-system regulation. It also helps you notice stress signals earlier, before they escalate.
Where This Changes
For some people (especially with trauma history), intense inward body focus can feel overwhelming or dissociative. If that happens, widen attention, ground externally, or use movement-based practice.