A Conversation With My Back

A truly weird creative writing exercise

This morning, I stumbled upon an idea that sparked my curiosity—engaging in a creative writing exercise with an unusual partner: my own back. Yes, you read that right. It's a conversation with my back. As I delve into innovative methods of tuning into my body, I've realized the potential of such exercises. They're not just about listening; they're about engaging in a dialogue. So, I set out to ask questions and document the responses from this often-ignored part of myself. Let's see what secrets and insights my back holds.

Here’s how it went. 

Molly

Back, what are you trying to tell me?

Back 

I’m trying to tell you to breathe into me.

Molly

Why?

Back 

Because I need you to acknowledge me so that we can do this dance together.

Molly

What do you mean by dance?

Back 

I will support you, and do my best to surround you with love if you give me time to breathe. 

Molly

Don’t you think I do give you time?

Back 

Well, you do, but most of the time I feel like you’re angry with me, that you would prefer I just not exist and that you spend a lot of time wishing me away.

Molly

It’s true, I do.

Back 

But maybe we could come to an agreement. That we become friends. And support each other. 

Molly

That sounds good. How do I do that?

Back 

Simply breathe into me. And take moments throughout the day to be tender towards me. Practice self soothing. It feels good to stretch me, so do that. It feels good to honor me, so do that. It feels good to let me be, simply the way I need to exist. I don’t want to fight with you. 

Molly

I understand. I can see that I am fighting with you. 

Back 

Yes, and if we were in agreement, I think maybe the relationship would be more trustworthy. 

Molly

So how do I start?

Back 

Just begin today by smiling at me.

Molly

How do I smile at you?

Back 

You don’t need to think hard about that. Just add that phrase into your subconscious and see what happens. I think it’ll become obvious. Just make that the mantra for the day and let’s see how we feel at the end of it. 

Molly

I already feel better. Not perfect, but more relaxed.

Back 

Yes, that’s because you’re feeling the truth.