
"Embodiment is the essence of Tantric practice. By enlivening our senses, it invites us to become more aware of every layer of our being, restoring balance, vitality, and a sense of deep intimacy and connection.”
Embodiment is a term frequently mentioned in the realms of Tantra, yogic practice and psychosomatic therapy.
As a Tantra and somatic practitioner, I am very familiar with the practice embodiment, but a quick search online reveals that embodiment is still only defined as a representation of something, for example “she is the living embodiment of vitality" or “he embodies the qualities of a gentleman”.
But this isn’t the meaning of embodiment I refer to in my sessions with clients. Let’s explore embodiment through the lens of Tantra and somatics.
Defining Embodiment
A common phrase I hear from clients is: “I feel disconnected from my body.” This sentiment isn’t surprising.
Our modern world is highly cerebral. Work demands, endless to-do lists and constant digital connectivity have pulled us away from our senses—the primary gateway we experience connection. More and more, we default to working on autopilot just to get through the day. Over time, we loose touch with our bodies and senses, leaving us feeling numb or detached.
Embodiment, as I practice and teach it, is about reclaiming this connection. It means tuning into the sensations and feedback of the body to develop somatic awareness. Through this awareness, we can feel more connected to ourselves, our partners, and the world around us.
Ann Saffi Biasetti, a leading somatic psychotherapist, defines embodiment as:
“living life informed through the sense experience of the body.”
In Tantric philosophy, the body and senses are gateways to self-realization and spiritual awakening. Tantra views the mind, body, and spirit (the tangible and intangible) as deeply interwoven: the state of the mind impacts the body, and the state of the body influences the mind. They are inseparable.
Embodiment, then, is the essence of Tantric practice. By enlivening our senses, it invites us to become more aware of every layer of our being—physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. Through this multi-layered understanding of ourselves, we can restore balance, vitality, and a sense of deep intimacy and connection.
Benefits of Embodiment
Practicing embodiment offers endless benefits across many facets of our lives:
1. Enhanced Self-Awareness
Through embodiment we gain valuable information about our internal state allowing us to make more informed decisions to our needs and desires, rather than acting on impulse or habit.
2. Emotional Regulation
We develop skills for processing difficult emotions and experiences, allowing us to navigate pain and vulnerability with greater ease.
3. Stress Reduction
Embodiment practices such as mindful movement, breathwork, and somatic awareness help calm the nervous system, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
4. Heightened Sensuality and Pleasure
Being present in the body allows you to fully experience the pleasures of touch, connection, and the sensory richness of life, leading to deeper intimacy and joy.
5. Strengthened Connection to Others
When you’re more in tune with all the parts of yourself, you’re better able to connect with others authentically. This deepens empathy, communication, and trust in relationships.
6. Empowered Decision-Making
Through embodiment we expand our resources for decision making, reducing overthinking and promoting a more holistic approach to problem solving.
7. Healing and Integration
Embodiment can help release unprocessed trauma, tension, or emotional blockages stored in the body, fostering a sense of wholeness and vitality.
8. Spiritual Connection
In many traditions like Tantra, embodiment is seen as a pathway to experiencing the divine within the body, connecting the material and spiritual realms.
Practicing Embodiment
There are many ways to practice embodiment. Practices are often centred around 5 key aspects of ourselves including: breath, movement, sound, touch and awareness.
Here are 3 ways you can start practicing embodiment today:
Movement
Movement is one of the most effective ways of tuning into the body. Activities like yoga are designed to align mind, body and spirit. Moving through a few rounds of cat-cow can be enough to bring you into a more embodied state.
Breath (Pranayama)
Conscious breathing anchors your awareness to the body and connects you to its energy flow. Notice the difference you feel after just one conscious breath.
Touch
Intentional touch or massage can stimulate our entire sensory system. Holistic bodywork practices like Tantric massage blend elements of touch, breath, sound and visualisation providing a deeply embodied experience.
Embodiment is an ongoing practice, a journey back to yourself. Whether through movement, touch, or breath, these practices offer a pathway to greater presence, connection, and joy.
If you’re curious to start practicing embodiment, book a Biju Embody session to receive in-person guidance or allow us to transport you to a state of embodied bliss through Tantric massage.
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