The Second Value of Becoming mBODYed: Belonging

In this episode of the Becoming mBODYed podcast, host Shawn Copeland and guest Dr. Jackie McElwain delve into the themes of safety, belonging, and self-mapping in the context of embodied creativity. They explore their personal journeys, the importance of creating safe spaces for expression, and the challenges of vulnerability in performance. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding oneself to foster a sense of belonging within communities and the creative process. This conversation delves into the importance of owning one's identity and journey, exploring the science behind belonging and its impact on creativity and community dynamics. The speakers discuss how conditions of belonging can affect individuals, particularly in artistic environments, and emphasize the significance of understanding movement as a reflection of personal identity. The dialogue highlights the need for safety and acceptance within communities, particularly in the context of music and performance. In this conversation, the speakers explore the complexities of medical diagnoses, the importance of acknowledging patient stories, and the need for empathy in healthcare. They discuss the challenges faced by musicians in getting proper diagnoses and the role of somatic education in healing. The conversation emphasizes the significance of creating safe spaces for individuals to feel seen and heard, and the importance of self-worth and belonging in educational settings.

takeaways

• Safety and belonging are foundational to creativity.
• The journey to somatics often begins with personal challenges.
• Self-mapping is a process of understanding one's identity.
• Vulnerability is essential in sharing personal stories.
• Creating safe spaces allows for authentic expression.
• Belonging starts with self-acceptance and understanding.
• The brain's primary function is to ensure safety.
• Writing collaboratively can enhance the creative process.
• Personal growth often involves discomfort and reflection.
• Communities thrive when diverse perspectives are honored. Owning one's journey is crucial for self-acceptance.
• Belonging is essential for safety and creativity.
• Self-belonging precedes communal belonging.
• The relationship between posture and creativity is significant.
• Conditions of belonging can create pressure in communities.
• Artistic tribes provide a sense of safety and belonging.
• Movement reflects individual identity and experiences.
• Neuroscience can explain feelings of belonging.
• Changing ingrained habits can be emotionally challenging.
• Creating spaces of safety fosters expression and connection. Patients often face multiple doctors before receiving a correct diagnosis.
• Acknowledging a patient's story is crucial for their healing process.
• Empathy and compassion are often missing in traditional medical settings.
• It's important to validate a patient's experience, even when tests show no issues.
• Creating a safe space allows for personal growth and healing.
• Self-mapping

Becoming mBODYed is a production of and copyrighted by mBODYed, LLC, 2024. www.mbodyed.com
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The intro and exit music is Dark Matter by Carlos Velez, recorded by Tosca Duo on their CD Dimensions.
A link to Carlos’s music is available at
https://composercarlosvelez.wixsite.com/carlosvelezmusic/about-me.