Embodying

Psychotherapy is about changing the brain for the better so we can make more of our lives. In my experience, our culture often seems to struggle with the idea that the brain and nervous system is totally enmeshed with the body. Thinking is a vital part of the human condition, but for me, the mind is more than our thoughts. I think and feel and sense and do and move and relate with awareness, therefore I am.

Some implications

Knowing that we’re embodied minds gives us more therapeutic options. For example, replacing judgemental thoughts with kinder ones usually leads to more pleasant feelings and body sensations. As using the brain to relax the body also brings peace to the embodied mind, body-based soothing activities can also support our thinking, feeling and everything else, as shown in this great video by Dr Russell Kennedy.

There are many body-honouring paths such as Body Psychotherapy, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and Yoga. I was involved in Touch for Health before training to be a counsellor and have found great value in simple yet profound self Acu-touch and Acu-tapping practices which I may encourage you to do as stress management support for talking therapy.