Listen to your body

Yesterday I went to the dentist for a small procedure. Two weeks ago, an X-ray showed a tiny cavity, so this visit was to take care of it before it became something bigger.

They used anesthesia at the beginning, so I didn’t feel any pain—only a faint vibration, probably from the grinding tool. Not feeling pain was such a strange sensation. My brain kept telling me, “You should feel something,” but there was nothing there. It almost felt like my brain and body were slightly disconnected.

I’m not sure if “cognitive dissonance” is the right term, but it made me realize how closely our awareness is tied to physical sensation. When there’s no pain, you barely notice what’s happening in your own body.

Pain is unpleasant, and of course we all try to avoid it—but at the same time, it’s an important signal. It tells us when something needs attention. Not having that signal at all would actually be scarier.

This little dental visit reminded me not to ignore small signs from my body.

Listen to your body. Take care of yourself.