ABSTRACT
This chapter proposes a clinical embodiment theory built upon phenomenological approaches of the lived body and findings from cognitive sciences. Embodiment research provides support for the clinical importance of nonverbal behaviours. Acolin’s chapter builds upon research addressing the mind and body to propose a multi-dimensional model of health and illness as the foundation for a clinical theory of embodiment. The model’s dimensions are Decision (Mind vs. Body), Identity (Object vs. Subject), and Focus (Internal vs. External); the logic is to reach a balance and flexibility between the poles of each dimension. To illustrate the model, Acolin demonstrates its application to clinical treatment is discusses directions for further research.
