How to Change Your Body: The Science of Interoception and Healing Through Connection to Yourself and Others
"How to Change Your Body" is an enlightening and thought-provoking book that serves as a compliment to various therapeutic modalities, such as massage therapy, ketamine assisted massage therapy, and the study of fascia as a global sensory and emotional organ. This book delves into a crucial aspect of the mind-body relationship that has been often overlooked – the profound need for social connection.
The author, Saga Briggs, takes readers on a captivating journey, presenting a compelling hypothesis: that many common afflictions, including depression, anxiety, addiction, and PTSD, can be linked to our disconnection from our own bodies. Through a combination of interviews with scientists, somatic workers, and artists from around the world, Briggs artfully explores the social-emotional dimensions of so-called mental illnesses. The result is a beautifully balanced blend of peer-reviewed research and personal vignettes, drawing a deep and profound connection between bodily awareness, social interaction, and mental well-being.
One of the book's key themes is interoception, often referred to as the eighth sense. Briggs convincingly argues that interoception is fundamental to human health and underpins various therapeutic techniques that can enhance our relationships with ourselves and others. These techniques include psychedelic-assisted therapy, synchronous movement, and energy work. By connecting the dots between these practices and the mind-body-social interplay, the book offers a fresh perspective on how we can improve our mental and emotional well-being.
The real strength of "How to Change Your Body" lies in its accessibility. It caters to a wide audience, whether you're grappling with a mental health diagnosis or simply seeking a more profound connection to yourself and your community. This book provides a powerful antidote to feelings of isolation and disconnection. It encourages readers to remember their bodies in all their intricacy, enabling them to increase their capacity for presence, reconnect with others, and embark on a healing journey.
In a world where mental health issues are on the rise, "How to Change Your Body" offers a timely and holistic perspective on the mind-body-social relationship. It makes a compelling case for the vital role of bodily awareness and social connection in our mental well-being, and its exploration of various therapeutic techniques enriches our understanding of how we can heal and thrive. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the fascinating intersection of the body, mind, and society.
"How to Change Your Body" serves as an indispensable complement to the realms of massage therapy, ketamine assisted massage therapy, and the groundbreaking study of fascia as a global sensory and emotional organ. Saga Briggs, the author, skillfully weaves these elements into her exploration of the mind-body-social connection. Through compelling interviews and rigorous research, she demonstrates how our bodies, including the intricate fascia, are not only a physical vessel but also a reservoir of sensory and emotional experiences. By delving into the intricacies of interoception, the eighth sense, she highlights its pivotal role in human well-being and its connection to various therapeutic techniques, such as massage therapy and ketamine-assisted treatments, that aim to enhance bodily awareness and social connection. As she navigates her personal journey away from alcohol dependence, Briggs beautifully illustrates how these practices, when integrated with our understanding of fascia and interoception, can empower individuals to heal and forge deeper connections with themselves and their communities. "How to Change Your Body" thus stands as a vital bridge between emerging scientific insights and transformative healing practices, shedding light on the path toward holistic well-being.
