Embodied presence
Caroline Brazier
July 20, 2017 DOI: 10.4324/9781315208268-2 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that embodiment is central to therapy and to outdoor therapeutic work, proposing that grounding and body-awareness can be intentionally developed or arise naturally through tuning in to the body-sense in nature. Offers practical guidance grounded in Gendlin's focusing and Buddhist mindfulness, and distinguishes reactive presence based on empathy from active presence that is often openly congruent. |
Abstract
This chapter explores the importance of embodiment in the therapeutic process and its relevance to working outdoors. Drawing on the theory of focusing developed by Eugene Gendlin and on Buddhist mindfulness practice, both in the Satipatthana and in recent work of Jon Kabat-Zinn and others, this chapter offers practical guidance on grounding and body-awareness exercises and on the use of embodied presence in therapy. Grounding can be developed intentionally, but it also often arises naturally when we tune in to the body-sense in the natural world. Secular mindfulness has gained popularity in recent decades through a movement inspired by the work of Jon Kabat-Zinn and others. Mindfulness has been used for relaxation, sharpening awareness, pain reduction, improving concentration, helping clear thinking and many other purposes. Reactive presence is based on empathy, but active presence is often openly congruent. Walking is fundamental to environmentally-based therapies. In Theravada Buddhism, walking meditation is generally done along straight lines.