Ep 4. Using the Body to Shape the Mind
- TV-PG
- January 6, 2017
- 32 min
Using the Body to Shape the Mind is the fourth episode of Mind-Body Philosophy's first season. In this episode, the show delves into the concept of embodiment and how the way we use our bodies can affect our thinking, emotions, and overall well-being.
The episode begins by exploring the work of philosopher Maurice Merleau-Ponty, who argued that our bodies are not just vessels for our minds but integral parts of our experience and understanding of the world. The show then moves on to examine the ways in which people use their bodies to shape their minds and emotions, such as through yoga, meditation, and other physical practices.
One of the key points the episode makes is that embodiment is not just about physical movements, but also about the way we interact with the world around us. For example, the way we sit or stand can affect our confidence and mood, while the way we touch or hold objects can influence our feelings and attitudes towards them.
The show also looks at the relationship between the body and the brain, and how physical activity can affect cognitive function and mental health. Research has shown that exercise can improve everything from memory and learning to anxiety and depression, while activities like dance and music can enhance creativity and emotional expression.
Throughout the episode, Mind-Body Philosophy features interviews with experts in various fields, as well as real-life examples of people who have used embodiment practices to improve their lives. From a dancer who uses movement to process trauma to a yoga teacher who helps her students find balance and focus, the show highlights the many different ways in which the body and mind can work together for greater health and well-being.
Ultimately, Using the Body to Shape the Mind provides a fascinating look at the intersection of philosophy, science, and personal experience when it comes to embodiment, and emphasizes the importance of understanding and utilizing the connection between the body and mind for a more fulfilling life.