Another Self: How Your Body Helps You Understand Others

Another Self explains why we sometimes take on the physical, emotional, and even mental states of others. In this book—the first overview of somatic empathy—Dr Cindy Engel brings together research into social perception and interpersonal physiology to explain how and why our thoughts and feelings are not always entirely our own. Do you wince when you see someone stub their toe, feel your throat tighten when a friend cries, or know what someone is going to say just before they say it? New evidence reveals that this tendency to ‘catch’ others’ emotional and physiological condition is not merely a quirk of a few sensitive individuals but is a fundamental aspect of human intelligence; that feeling with others is an ancient strategy for predicting the intentions of others. This newfound appreciation for somatic empathy has implications in many domains—mental and physical health, animal welfare, and personal wellbeing. Understanding how somatic empathy impacts on us day to day without our knowing enables us to optimise empathy while sidestepping the perils secondary trauma, overwhelm, and burnout. Be prepared to reassess your sense of self, your relationships, your occupation, and your choice of entertainment. “I couldn’t put this down! Cindy masterfully guides us through the intricate science of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and the profound connections we forge at a deep, human level. This is especially crucial for individuals grappling with PTSD, offering them vital insights.” –Nick Goldsmith, Ex-Royal Commando, PTSD therapist and bestselling author of Rewild Your Mind . “”Another Self reminds us how connected we are with each other and also with non-human animals through somatic empathy which can work much faster than conscious thinking and moves us at a deeper level. This book is an excellent overview of the subject which combines scientific research with personal experience and vivid examples. I much enjoyed reading it and my copy is full of pencilled notes.”” —Rupert Sheldrake, PhD, biologist, bestselling author of The Presence of the Past “A truly astounding book. Beautifully written and deeply researched, Another Self should be read by every doctor, nurse, therapist, bodyworker and complementary medicine practitioner.” —Peter Deadman, founder and editor of The Journal of Chinese Medicine, co-author of The Manual of Acupuncture and author of Live Well, Live Long . “I wish everyone were familiar with the information in this book, but I especially recommend that every bodyworker read this book.” —Karen Elisa BFA, AOBTA®-CP, Dipl. ABT (NCCAOM), Board President, AOBTA. CONTENTS: Introduction Part 1: Minded Bodies Noticing Danger The Unconscious is Dead Part 2: Experimental Studies Doing What Others Do Feeling How Others Feel Thinking How Others Think Part 3: Ways & Means Our Mind’s Best Guess Embodied Perception Signals From Others Bringing the Outside In The Control Dial How We Use Our Body to Understand Others Part 4: Ramifications Each to Their Own Dire Warnings Opportunities and Applications Futureproofing References and Notes – ASIN: 1800492804 | ISBN13: 9781800492806 | ISBN-13: 978-1800492806