Intuition. That feeling where you “just know,” but how? What is the nature of this sixth sense, and how do we foster it? I was happy to invite Dr. Melissa Bird to this week’s podcast to answer our questions about intuition and how we can tap into this powerful force within us. Dr. Melissa Bird, Ph.D., MSW, is a passionate feminist whose education in social work has led to a career advocating for children, women, and their families. One of Melissa's key focus areas is helping women overcome their fears around speaking their minds and pursuing their dreams. She encourages women to listen to their intuition and tap into their inner wisdom to find their voice and purpose in life.  So, how do we tap into our intuition? Dr. Bird describes intuition as a muscle, the more we listen to it, the more we use it, and the stronger it becomes. She also reminds us to combat our perfectionism actively, to stop striving for perfection and instead strives for “humanism.” In doing so, we enhance our ability to tap into our intuition.  Moreover, she discusses the effect of society's demand for making decisions based on rationality and the idea that intuition is not considered “rational.” So, over time it has become our tendency to stamp out this sense within us. Melissa also dives into the complexity of race and ancestry and shares a bit about her complex heritage. She explains how our sense of groundedness and identity influence our connectedness with ourselves and our intuition. She recommends three parts in learning to reconnect with your intuition: Learn how to listen to your body, acknowledge when you’re questioning yourself, and when you realize you may have let other factors guide you, stop shaming yourself for “not listening.” We are all individuals, and we reach our sense of intuition differently.   Click here to listen! How to reach Dr. Bird: WEBSITE FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM Rating, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts Heike’s insights on the Pursue Your Spark are so helpful in creating a well-rounded, healthy lifestyle”! ← If that sounds like you, consider rating and reviewing my show here! This helps me support more empty-nester moms 50+ – just like you – redefining their second half of life. Click here, scroll to the bottom, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you loved most about the episode!  There is always something new on the feed, and if you’re not following, there’s a chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!  Links mentioned in the show: Fasted + Fit Over 50 Jump Start  Empty Nest Reboot program Reinvention Rebels Podcast