Bodyfulness Practices & Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Processing
Today’s episode is a continuation of the bodyfulness theme, picking up from two episodes ago when I introduced this Deeper Dive topic. Bodyfulness is also called “embodied mindfulness,” “somatic awareness,” or “mindfulness in the body.” In this talk, I get a little more specific on the concept of bottom-up vs. top-down processing, and some inquiries we can use to explore and develop embodied mindfulness.
Episode Details:
To continue the conversation on embodiment (or bodyfulness), I’ll introduce the idea of Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down processing, and how these theories of perception might help us explain what is going on when we’re feeling embodied or disembodied. Bottom-up processing is rooted in our sensory experience in the present moment, while Top-down processing relies more on concepts, memories, and cognitive frameworks to interpret our experience. We’ll look at how our yoga and meditation practices utilize both types of processing, and consider when each might be useful.
I also give some examples of both connection and disconnection that have inspired my own inquiry into embodied mindfulness. Early on in my yoga practice, I once had a taste of deep, vibrant presence while resting in Savasana. And then, at another time, I remember feeling distant and separate from the present moment, even though I was in a beautiful place having a lovely experience.
Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Processing in Yoga Practice:
Finally, I’ll offer some suggestions for approaching re-embodiment, or enhancing your bodyfulness, in both yoga and meditation practice.
- using mirrors (or not) in yoga practice
- how we incorporate alignment rules in our poses
- how self-touch might be part of learning to “listen” to your sensations
- examples of mindfulness techniques that are more bottom-up or top-down in approach
Hopefully, you’ll come away with inspiration and some concrete ways to engage with this lifelong practice of bodyfulness.
Resources & Links from this episode:
As mentioned at the beginning of the episode, Bodyfulness was the Deeper Dive theme during the month that this episode came out. If you missed the newsletter because you’re listening to this later, you can still get the worksheet. All you need to do is email me at mail@movedtomeditate.com and ask. 🙂
BONUS: As a thank you for listening to the podcast, I’d like to offer you a free class on today’s topic! Try Gentle Touch, Embodied Awareness from my Moved To Meditate Class Library. To play the video: follow the link, then click “Get Access,” choose One-Time Purchase, and enter the code PODCASTFREE.
You can find more on-demand mindful yoga classes and guided meditations in the Moved To Meditate Class Library that align with all that we discuss on the podcast. Let’s practice together!