Listen Reboot
Picture yourself engrossed in an animated conversation, intently listening to the words being spoken. Is it effortless? This intriguing and vital skill can sometimes leave you feeling brain-weary.
Believe it or not, your brain is a workhorse. Accounting for just 2% of your body weight, it devours a whopping one-fifth of your energy supply. Active listening, in its most attentive and focused form, is no small feat. Listening without distraction, with intention, and without the juggling act of multi-tasking may be one reason why you’re feeling mentally drained and fatigued.
Your ears are wondrous structures, holding the smallest bone in your entire body. These auditory marvels work by transforming sound into vibrations through the movement of hair fibers. But it doesn't stop there – your ears contain a relay station that splits into two pathways, crossing brain hemispheres to analyze, categorize, and filter auditory information. These processes facilitate sound localization, pattern recognition, timing, and balance – all seamlessly orchestrated by our ears.
Active listening involves your entire body - shoulders, neck, head, eyes, and lips. Each play key roles when you engage in conversations. Your body language often mirrors your intentions, such as a nod of agreement or a tilt of compassion.
The awesome reality to non-verbal language like nodding is that it sends messages to the brain, which, in turn, impacts your inner ear. Therefore, that purposeful body posturing to observe gestures can enhance word recognition, while minimizing visual and audible distractions. Which is why body posturing and non-verbal language further enhances an ability to listen.
However, there's a point where the act of active listening can become taxing. Your energy reserves might be depleted, leading you to replace active engagement with ruminating thoughts or perhaps even the temptation to "zone out." In such moments, your brain seeks relief from the cognitive effort, sometimes prompting a mental retreat or even a well-deserved nap.
While active listening might be exhausting, it's undeniably worth the effort. It's a skill that enriches relationships, deepens understanding, and fosters genuine connections. To master this art, you can intentionally manage your energy levels, practice mindfulness to avoid drifting into rumination, and embrace brief breaks when needed.
So, the next time you find yourself feeling a bit mentally drained after an engaging conversation, remember that active listening isn't just a casual pursuit. It's a dynamic endeavor that involves your ears, body, and mind. While occasionally tiring, it can create understanding and connection that deeply enrich your life.
Questions to consider.
How often do you incorporate periods of quiet rest in to your day?
What feelings, thoughts, or sensations do you notice when you’re tired or brain-dead?
Are there habits you use to actively listening? If yes, what? If no, what is one thing you may experiment with to improve the skill of active listening?
