Using Your Intuition

If you've ever read anything about using your intuition, you were probably left wondering, "What exactly is intuition?" People usually try to over-complicate the process of using this inner gift. A lot of times, people describe intuition as a 'gut feeling', and that is basically what it is, but it can also be described as 'a hunch', good or bad 'vibes', 'inspiration' and even 'dreams'.

If you've ever been in a situation where something inside you seemed to lead you and give you direction, you have experienced the subtle, yet distinct phenomenon of your intuition. This 'inner knowing' helps you make wise decisions and can provide you with answers you didn't know you knew. Have you ever followed your first instinct, and realized that your gut feeling was indeed the right thing to do? Have you ever met a person and gotten a bad feeling about them? These situations happen all the time, yet often, the 'feeling' is ignored. It's important that you heed that small, subtle voice. It can save you from many dangers and less-than-ideal situations.

Using your intuition is more than just knowing a difference between good and bad. In some cases, it helps people act in ways that alter the course of their lives in a positive way. On the flip side, there are times when people's lives are negatively affected because they refuse to acknowledge what is deep within them. Instead of constantly wondering when or where you will have an experience involving intuition, just let go and allow this gift to lead you when it presents itself.

This can be a challenge because so often we are bombarded with the countless activities and noise of our everyday lives. However, it is possible to quiet your mind and achieve a peaceful state that will help you be more in-tune to the subtleness of your intuition. One way to do this is to stop second-guessing yourself. Learn to trust your instincts. Your body and mind know what to do in many situations, if you are calm and listen. Doubt and mistrust on your part will only prevent you from receiving the full benefits of using your intuition.

Here's a question for you. When you are driving somewhere you've never been before and need directions, what do you do? (Ok, this question does not apply to anyone with a GPS or men in general;)) As for the rest of us, the answer is: You ask someone for directions. It's the same when dealing with your inner self. When you have questions about something your intuition is telling you, ask your inner self for more direction. Your intuition is a part of you that will lead you down the correct path, if you let it. Confusion and frustration are the result of not listening and heeding the advice you receive via this inner voice. It is important to remember that your intuition is quiet and calm. It won't blow whistles or ring bells. You must learn to recognize its subtleness and listen to its promptings. That is the challenge.

There are many methods available that can help you connect more clearly with your inner self. Meditation, Yoga and Tai Chi are wonderful ways to quiet and calm the mind. Others find inspiration and a clear sense of what their intuition is telling them through creative channels such as painting, dancing or singing. When you find what helps you connect to these inner resources, try to make it a daily occurrence. This will help you become more in-tune to the promptings intuition brings.

It is said that there are no coincidences. Supposing this is true, it might be said then that everything that happens to us has a purpose or meaning. Suppose you know this on a deep level, so each situation you encounter may be easily recognized through your intuition as a subconscious knowledge. This scenario might explain a bit of the mystery surrounding this gift. Whatever the case may be, your intuition is a part of you, and always will be. So take advantage of this gift and learn to use it to benefit your life.