Using our senses is something that we do everyday but most of us barely tap the surface of those senses. Our physical sight is the most used of our senses and it is also the one taken most for granted. We hear but how often do we really listen? Our senses of smell and touch are stimulated the most by pain and pleasure, stench or attractive fragrance. The average sensation slips by without much notice.

It is said that those who lack one sense will find that the others become stronger. Although the majority of people rely only on their physical senses, we have a deep well of senses from which to draw. The five physical senses belong to the body but we are more than just the body. We are mind, we are spirit. Scientific studies show that more scientists are beginning to believe that the mind and brain are not one and the same as had been traditionally accepted. Regardless of that particular determination, most of us have had some indication at one time or another that we do indeed possess senses beyond the physical.

People who are considered psychic are merely tapping into their other natural senses. I believe this is something everyone has the ability to do yet many people dismiss such abilities as nonsense. From birth, we are conditioned to focus on the material world in which we physically reside. Our physical senses are given precedence over any experience not normally perceived to be of the physical. Children have been discouraged from developing their natural abilities when they speak of angels or imaginary playmates. Think of how much could be learned and gained if these natural abilities were to be nurtured and honed.

We use senses beyond the physical all the time; we just don't realize it and when we do, we lack the understanding to comprehend these abilities as a natural function. Imagine extending our capabilities by accepting the fact that we are limitless beings. To accept that our consciousness extends beyond the physical containers we call bodies is difficult for many of us to grasp. We can't imagine ourselves as limitless beings when we look at our material lives that are filled with limitations. We can get in touch with our senses if we choose to cultivate them rather than ignore them. They are there deep within us, perhaps dormant in some, but there nevertheless.

We all use those senses even if we're not consciously aware of it. Several books that I've read throughout the years recommend different methods for getting in touch with one's full range of senses. Even so, I've found certain elements a common voice in most. Meditation, fasting, exercise, fresh air, sunlight and refraining from toxins such as smoking are thought to be conducive for improving one's extrasensory perception and other psychic abilities. Proper diet is thought to be important as well. It only stands to reason that cleansing the physical body of impurities is beneficial to our spiritual body.

When we become more attuned to both our inner and outer selves, we can experience physical existence more fully by utilizing all of the senses that nature has provided us with. Think of these senses as latent talents that can be developed. Many singers have a lovely voice but still need to take voice lessons in order to reach their full potential. Expand your consciousness and remember that you are a limitless being.

Darlene Zagata is a freelance writer and author of two books, "Aftertaste: A Collection of Poems" and "The Choosing." She is also a monthly columnist and editor for the print publication Moon Shadows Magazine. Visit Darlene's website at http://darlenezagata.tripod.com or contact Darlene at darzagata@yahoo.com