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The union of two nervous systems: neurophenomenology, enkinaesthesia, and the Alexander technique

Stuart, S.A.J. (2013) The union of two nervous systems: neurophenomenology, enkinaesthesia, and the Alexander technique. Constructivist Foundations, 8(3), pp. 314-323.

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Publisher's URL: http://www.univie.ac.at/constructivism/journal/8/3/314.stuart

Abstract

This paper presents an hypothesis, along with the appropriate theoretical and methodological underpinnings for analyzing the feasibility of the hypothesis as the fulcrum of a potential neurophenomenological project. The hypothesis states that if, in the effective practice of Alexander Technique, there is a union of two nervous systems, it should be visible neurologically and affective phenomenologically, and thus it should be possible to investigate both its neural and phenomenal signatures. A significant aspect of the originality of this endeavour is that it draws together a range of perspectives within the study of experience, and gives each a non-reductive parity in the ensuing discussion of the correlation and observation of the spatio-temporal dynamics of synchronized neural sets. The overall aim is to present a method for examining possible correlations of neurodynamic and phenodynamic structures within the structurally-coupled work of Alexander Technique practitioners with their pupils. This paper includes the development of an enkinaesthetic explanatory framework, an overview of the salient aspects of the Alexander Technique, and the presentation of an elicitation interview technique as part of a neurophenomenological method. This has important ramifications for somatic education and therapies, for establishing frameworks of co-engagement and care in health-care situations, and for understanding empathy.

Item Type:	Articles
Additional Information:	Full text is available for free from the publisher through the permanent URL http://www.univie.ac.at/constructivism/journal/8/3/314.stuart
Keywords:	Neurophenomenology, Alexander Technique, enkinaesthesia, elicitation interview, co-activity, co-intentional, resonance, inhibition, guidance, direction
Status:	Published
Refereed:	Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:	Stuart, Dr Susan
Authors:	Stuart, S.A.J.
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > B Philosophy (General) B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BD Speculative Philosophy R Medicine > RZ Other systems of medicine
College/School:	College of Arts & Humanities > School of Humanities > Information Studies
Journal Name:	Constructivist Foundations
Journal Abbr.:	JCF
Publisher:	University of Vienna
ISSN:	1782-348X
Copyright Holders:	Author

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Deposit and Record Details

ID Code:	83006
Depositing User:	Dr Susan Stuart
Datestamp:	18 Jul 2013 10:14
Last Modified:	23 Sep 2021 10:38
Date of first online publication:	2013