EMBODIED LEADERSHIP
Embodiment, also known as ‘somatic’, is the study of the subject experience of the body. It explores how we can gain knowledge as perceived through the body. This is an alien concept to most leaders, who believe the body is a vehicle to get their brain to meetings. Recognising the connection between mind and body, leaders must develop both in unison so that one does not override the other. This is the essence of embodied leadership.
Our thoughts are influenced by our feelings, our cognitions by our emotions, and vice-versa. As we feel our emotions in our body, having greater awareness of our body can provide us with a rich source of data. The brain’s information processing capacity cannot be separated from the body’s capacity to sense and feel for sensemaking purposes. This is what Guy Claxton, emeritus Professor at the University of Winchester, calls embodied cognition.
Through the regular practice of Sophrological techniques, leaders are able to reconnect with their body and benefit from the deeper wisdom it affords. A wisdom that is desperately needed if leaders are to lead their organisation, and wider society, through the transformation to a sustainable future. Now is the time for embodied leadership.
Contact us to chat with one of our consultants about developing embodied leadership in your organisation.