What is embodiment and what does it have to do with motherhood? The answer is everything.
Being a mother has never been harder. We are inundated with distraction, information, and comparison. Our mothers of the 80’s and 90’s had it so good ha! Because of these distractions we are more dis-embodied then ever.
Warning: Spoilers ahead for the hottest movie of the summer, one monologue perfectly summed up the impossible tightrope women have to walk in modern society.
America Ferrera’s Barbie speech:
“It is literally impossible to be a woman. You are so beautiful, and so smart, and it kills me that you don’t think you’re good enough. Like, we have to always be extraordinary, but somehow we’re always doing it wrong.
You have to be thin, but not too thin. And you can never say you want to be thin. You have to say you want to be healthy, but also you have to be thin. You have to have money, but you can’t ask for money because that’s crass. You have to be a boss, but you can’t be mean. You have to lead, but you can’t squash other people’s ideas. You’re supposed to love being a mother, but don’t talk about your kids all the damn time. You have to be a career woman, but also always be looking out for other people. You have to answer for men’s bad behavior, which is insane, but if you point that out, you’re accused of complaining.
You’re supposed to stay pretty for men, but not so pretty that you tempt them too much or that you threaten other women because you’re supposed to be a part of the sisterhood. But always stand out and always be grateful. But never forget that the system is rigged. So find a way to acknowledge that, but also always be grateful.
You have to never get old, never be rude, never show off, never be selfish, never fall down, never fail, never show fear, never get out of line. It’s too hard! It’s too contradictory and nobody gives you a medal or says thank you! And it turns out in fact that not only are you doing everything wrong, but also everything is your fault
I’m just so tired of watching myself and every single other woman tie herself into knots so that people will like us…..”
What is embodiment? Embodiment is paying attention to what you feel in your body and not overriding those feelings with your brain.
Embodiment refers to the concept of being fully present and connected to one’s own body and physical sensations. It involves an awareness of bodily sensations, emotions, and thoughts, and the recognition of how these elements interact to shape our experiences. In essence, embodiment is about experiencing life not just as a cognitive or intellectual process but as a holistic, sensory experience that encompasses our entire being.
Practicing embodiment often involves mindfulness techniques and activities that help individuals become more attuned to their bodies and sensations. This can include practices such as meditation, yoga, Nonlinear Movement, breathwork, body scans, and other exercises that foster a deeper connection with one’s bodily experiences.
Embodiment is not only about self-awareness but can also have broader implications. It can influence how we engage with the world around us, how we relate to others, and how we make decisions. (IF IT’S NOT A FULL BODY YES IT’S A NO).
What does this have to do with mothers?
For mothers, embodiment can take on a special significance, as it can help us connect with the physical and emotional aspects of our maternal experience. It can aid in managing our stress, nurturing self-care, and fostering a deeper connection with our own bodies and the bodies of our children.
Embodiment is about being present in your own body, fully experiencing the sensations, emotions, and thoughts that make up our lived experience as women and mothers.. It’s a way of fostering a deeper connection with oneself and the world around us, leading to greater self-awareness, emotional resilience, and holistic well-being.
5 Ways to decrease your anxiety in the midst of chaos:
- Awareness of how your body feels and giving her what she needs. (sleep, food, movement, rest, a weekend away, a dr appt…)
- Acceptance without judgment
- Noticing what you feel and moving it out.
- Changing negative or distorted thoughts.
- Working with your body not against her. She is not something to be fixed, she is your oldest friend.
Scan here for my free Embodied Mother Workbook:
With hope & healing,
Chrissy
