The healthcare system is a complex web that no one article could ever fix. But there are simple things that could help. Things that require no additional funds. Skills that have been researched and taught for decades. Skills that apply whether you are the patient, caregiver, or provider. Skills that, unfortunately, many overlook and underestimate.

As one might predict, a person’s health never begins with a visit to the hospital — it starts with a conversation. But this conversation isn’t just between you and your doctor; it’s happening inside your body every second of the day. Your body constantly sends signals about your health, and learning to “listen” to these messages can help you prevent illness, detect problems early, and maintain overall well-being.