Somatic Awakening――A Psychophysical Approach to Embodied Intelligence [English edition]

Body psychology is a new current in psychology that seeks to improve mental states by harnessing the interrelationship between body and mind. Its starting point was the invention of fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging). fMRI is a medical device that uses magnetic forces to scan the body and display, in real time, what is happening inside. For example, when one feels anger, blood flow concentrates in the amygdala; when one feels kindness, the neurotransmitter oxytocin is secreted. The body and mind do not exist independently but are inseparably connected, with brain regions corresponding to mental states. This book highlights such correlations between body and mind, proposing methods to address mental distress through physical approaches. As practical means, it introduces mindfulness breathing techniques, anger management, self-hugging, light jumping exercises, and more—tools for awakening bodily intelligence. By drawing upon the body's power to influence the brain and energize the mind, body psychology reveals its promise. The author once remarked in the lecture that inspired this manuscript, with striking candor: "The body is wise, while the brain and the mind are surprisingly foolish."