Have you ever experienced a strong intuition? How about a feeling in your gut? Do you know someone who claims to have a sixth sense? Surprisingly, these are all different ways to describe the same thing. It’s a phenomenon commonly referred to as intuition.

What exactly is intuition? According to psychology, it is the ability to make decisions without relying on analytical reasoning. You might have heard it being called “women’s intuition” or “mother’s intuition.” However, it’s important to note that intuition is not limited to a specific gender or parental status.

Experts believe that intuition is actually grounded in science. If you have been WONDERing with us for a while, you might have come across the science behind fear. In that case, you would have learned about the hippocampus, a region in your brain. This part of the brain makes countless decisions without your conscious awareness, using information from past experiences.

Intuition operates in a similar manner. In fact, scientists speculate that the hippocampus also plays a role in the development of intuition. Your brain is highly skilled at recognizing patterns and learning from previous encounters. When it comes across useful information, it ensures that you become aware of it.

Hunches may appear to come out of nowhere. However, no one is fully aware of every single operation of their brain. The subconscious mind constantly makes instinctual choices. Have you ever had a strong feeling that something was true? If so, it is likely that your brain was picking up on something it already knew from past experience.

Let’s consider an example. Have you ever had the sense that someone was not being completely truthful with you? Unfortunately, most people have experienced this. Imagine if you later found out that your intuition was correct. This might make you believe that you possess psychic abilities.

However, you were not reading minds. Rather, you were relying on intuition. Your subconscious mind could have detected numerous cues indicating dishonesty. For instance, your brain might have noticed that the person was avoiding eye contact. Based on previous experiences, your intuition alerted you to the fact that something was amiss.

If all of this occurs within the brain, why is intuition often referred to as a “gut feeling”? The brain and the gut are actually closely connected. Neurons, the cells responsible for brain activity, are also found in the abdominal organs. These cells enable communication between the brain and the gut. That’s why, when your brain wants to warn you about something, you may experience a stomach ache.

Do you possess intuition? The good news is that everyone does! And as you gain more life experience, your intuition will become stronger. But you might be WONDERing . . . can intuition be trusted?

Often, the answer is yes. Many experts believe that following your intuition can lead to good decisions. However, it is always important to consider the available evidence. If your intuition contradicts solid facts, it might be wise to reevaluate your thinking.

The human brain is capable of incredible things. Can you recall a time when your intuition turned out to be correct? What factors might have contributed to your brain reaching the right conclusion?

Give It a Try

Find a friend or family member to assist you with these activities!

Trust Your Intuition

Have you ever experienced a strong instinctive feeling about something that happened to you? Have you been told that you possess a “sixth sense”? Compose a narrative about your personal encounter. Was your intuition proven right? Did it assist you in resolving a problem? What triggered that intuitive feeling? Share your story with a friend or a family member.

Explore Your Amazing Brain

The brain is an incredibly intricate and fascinating organ! In this Wonder, we discussed the hippocampus, but there are numerous other parts of the brain. Take a look at this article on KidsHealth that delves into the brain and nervous system. Create a list of the three most captivating parts and share them with a friend or a family member.

Challenge Your Perception

Grab a friend or a family member and watch some Brain Games videos on National Geographic Kids. Did you perceive the same optical illusions? Were you tricked by any of them? Discuss your experience with your companion.

Wonder Sources

• https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/trust-your-gut (accessed 02 Aug. 2021)
• https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/articles/201912/8-truths-about-intuition (accessed 02 Aug. 2021)
• https://www.forbes.com/sites/alexandramysoor/2017/02/02/the-science-behind-intuition-and-how-you-can-use-it-to-get-ahead-at-work/?sh=7d03cbe2239f (accessed 02 Aug. 2021)
• https://www.livescience.com/54825-scientists-measure-intuition.html (accessed 02 Aug. 2021)
• https://learnersdictionary.com/ (accessed 02 Aug. 2021)

FAQ

1. Can your intuition be trusted?

Your intuition is a powerful tool that can guide you in making decisions. However, it is important to note that intuition is not foolproof and can sometimes lead you astray. Trusting your intuition should be done with caution and should be backed up by logical reasoning and evidence whenever possible.

2. How can you develop and strengthen your intuition?

Developing and strengthening your intuition can be done through practice and self-reflection. Paying attention to your gut feelings and emotions in different situations can help you become more in tune with your intuition. Additionally, taking time for mindfulness and meditation can also help quiet the mind and allow your intuition to come forward more easily.

3. Are there any signs that indicate your intuition is guiding you?

There are several signs that can indicate your intuition is guiding you. These can include a strong sense of certainty or knowing, a feeling of alignment or resonance with a certain decision or action, and a sense of peace or calmness when following your intuition. However, it is important to note that these signs can vary from person to person.

4. What are some common misconceptions about intuition?

One common misconception about intuition is that it is purely based on emotions and has no logical basis. In reality, intuition can be influenced by both emotions and logical reasoning. Another misconception is that intuition always leads to the right decision. While intuition can be helpful, it is not infallible and should not be solely relied upon without considering other factors.

5. Can intuition be developed in different areas of life?

Yes, intuition can be developed in different areas of life. Whether it is in making career decisions, relationships, or personal choices, intuition can play a role in guiding you towards the right path. The more you practice and trust your intuition, the stronger it becomes in all aspects of your life.

6. How can you differentiate between intuition and fear?

Distinguishing between intuition and fear can sometimes be challenging. Intuition often comes from a place of calmness and clarity, while fear is often accompanied by anxiety and uncertainty. It is important to listen to your gut feelings and consider the underlying emotions behind them. If your intuition is based on logical reasoning and aligns with your values, it is more likely to be reliable.