Mindfulness invites us to be present with our thoughts, emotions, and sensations in a non-judgmental way, allowing us to connect with the here and now. It is a practice many of us are familiar with—cultivating awareness of the mind and body in relation to our experiences. However, there’s another layer of awareness that complements and deepens this practice: bodyfulness.

While mindfulness often focuses on observing thoughts and feelings as they arise, bodyfulness emphasizes being fully present within the body—anchoring awareness not only in the breath or sensations, but also in the body’s movements and the natural rhythms it follows. This subtle shift of focus, from observing the mind to being with the body, opens up new avenues for groundedness and connection.

Introducing bodyfulness: What is it?

Where mindfulness helps us cultivate mental clarity and calm, bodyfulness encourages us to inhabit our bodies with the same presence and attentiveness. It’s about listening to the language of the body and tuning into its messages, whether that’s through breath, physical sensations, or movement. By doing so, we foster a deeper connection between the body and mind, enriching our overall sense of well-being.

At its core, bodyfulness is not a replacement for mindfulness, but a complement. Just as we train our minds to be more aware, we can also train ourselves to be more embodied, cultivating a fuller sense of presence that moves beyond thought and into physical experience.

Body-Mind Centering (BMC) and the foundations of bodyfulness

One approach that bridges this connection between the body and mind is Body-Mind Centering (BMC), developed by Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen. While BMC might be less familiar, it offers a gentle yet profound way of exploring how different bodily systems—such as our muscles, bones, fluids, and organs—play a role in our sense of self and awareness.

Through BMC, we come to understand that the body is not just a vessel for the mind but a dynamic, responsive system that communicates with us constantly. By paying attention to these systems, we can unlock new insights into how we move, feel, and relate to the world around us. This practice is deeply aligned with bodyfulness, offering us a map of the body’s inner workings and how we can connect to them more consciously.

Mindfulness and bodyfulness: A synergistic practice

Mindfulness teaches us to observe the flow of our thoughts and emotions without judgment. Bodyfulness, on the other hand, invites us to feel our bodies more fully from the inside out. The two are not mutually exclusive but can be practiced together to foster a richer sense of presence.

For instance, during mindfulness meditation, we often use the breath as an anchor. In bodyfulness, we might explore how the breath moves through the body, not just noticing the rise and fall of the chest, but sensing how each inhalation and exhalation affects our posture, our muscles, or even how the air feels as it fills our lungs. This deeper focus on the body enhances our mindfulness practice, making it more grounded and embodied.

Similarly, mindful movement—whether it’s yoga, walking, or stretching—can be enriched by bodyfulness. When we pay attention to how our muscles and bones work together to create movement, or how our organs and fluids support our physical actions, we develop a more integrated awareness of ourselves. The synergy between mindfulness and bodyfulness is powerful, helping us feel more centered and connected in both mind and body.

The gift of embodied presence

By integrating bodyfulness into our mindfulness practice, we allow ourselves to access a more profound state of presence. Whether you are a seasoned mindfulness practitioner or just beginning to explore these concepts, bodyfulness offers a simple yet meaningful way to deepen your practice. By tuning into the body and listening to its wisdom, we not only cultivate a more harmonious relationship with ourselves but also with the world around us.

If you’re interested in exploring bodyfulness, join me for my next workshop on 20 October 2024. Click here for more details. You’re warmly welcome!

Katrien