Exploring Embodiment and Finding Meaning in the World

John Vervaeke and Seth Dellinger delve into the intricacies of embodiment and wisdom. Dellinger, a specialist in the Feldenkrais Method, shares his expertise on how this somatic practice fosters personal growth and awareness. The conversation covers a range of topics, including the challenges of teaching embodiment in virtual environments and the transformative nature of mindfulness practices. Dellinger shares information about his upcoming workshop, where he integrates various embodiment practices to help individuals explore and enhance their personal and relational development. This episode is rich in discussions about the non-propositional nature of embodiment, the integration of perception, action, and orientation in wisdom practices, and the concept of wordless wisdom. Dellinger and Vervaeke's dialogue extends beyond physical practices to include psychological, philosophical, and personal development perspectives, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of the significance of embodiment in our lives. This conversation is not only informative but also transformative, providing insights into how somatic practices like the Feldenkrais Method can significantly impact personal and relational growth.

Glossary of Terms

Feldenkrais Method: A somatic educational system designed by Moshé Feldenkrais, aimed at improving human functioning by increasing self-awareness through movement.

D.I.M.E. Practice: An acronym for Dialogical, Imaginal, Mindful, and Embodied practices, a holistic approach to personal development.

Ecology of Practices: A concept introduced by John Vervaeke referring to a network of practices that enhance cognitive capacities.

Jhana Practice: A meditation technique in Buddhism focusing on developing concentration and mindfulness.

Dr. John Vervaeke: Website | YouTube | Patreon | X | Facebook

Seth Dellinger: Website | Email

Resources and References

The Vervaeke Foundation

Awaken to Meaning

John Vervaeke YouTube

Awakening from the Meaning Crisis

Books, Articles, and Publications

What is Orientation?: A Philosophical Investigation - Werner Stegmaier 

The Circling Institute

Workshops

Coming Home to Your Body (12/16/2023)

Grounded Connections

Try out the Presence Mantra

Quotes

"I am a teacher of the healing arts... a wisdom practice disguised as a movement practice." - Seth Dellinger

"Our bodies are just a way of accessing our entire lives, our entire being." - Seth Dellinger

"What I'm trying to teach you is how to become your own teacher." - Seth Dellinger on the Feldenkrais Method

"Understanding through movement can lead to a transformative worldview." - John Vervaeke

"Embodiment is not just about the physical; it's about transforming our entire way of being." - John Vervaeke

Chapters with Timestamps

[00:00:00] Introduction and Background of Seth Dellinger 

[00:01:00] The Feldenkrais Method and Its Evolution

[00:02:34] Exploring the D.I.M.E. Practice at the Verveke Foundation 

[00:05:21] Adapting Embodiment Practices to Virtual Spaces 

[00:14:07] The Concept of Wordless Wisdom in Movement and Presence 

[00:36:03] The Integration of Perception, Action, and Orientation in Wisdom Practices 

[00:50:09] The Role of Embodiment in Navigating Life's Challenges 

[01:00:58] Techniques and Insights for Personal and Relational Development 

[01:09:17] Conclusion and Reflections on the Conversation 

Timestamped Highlights

[00:00:00] - Introduction by John Vervaeke and introduction of Seth Dellinger.

[00:01:00] - Seth Dellinger discusses his approach to teaching the healing arts and the Feldenkrais Method.

[00:01:40] - Seth talks about his connection with the Circling Institute and the D.I.M.E. (Dialogical, Imaginal, Mindful, and Embodied) practice.

[00:04:20] - Seth discusses his way of processing John Vervaeke's work through embodiment.

[00:06:40] - Conversation about Moshe Feldenkrais' influence on Seth's teachings.

[00:09:00] - Seth shares his insights on the importance of becoming your own teacher.

[00:11:20] - Introduction of Seth's 'Grounded Connection' program.

[00:18:00] - Discussion on integrating practice into everyday life. 

[00:22:20] - Exploration of orientation and anxiety in the context of embodiment.

[00:31:00]  Seth introduces the concept of ‘worless wisdom’

[00:36:03] - Conversation about the fallibility of human perception and its impact on daily life​​.

[00:42:20] - Delving deeper into the concept of 'wordless wisdom' and its application in everyday interactions.

[00:53:40] - The significance of embodiment practices in transforming life experiences.

[00:56:00] - Dellinger discusses his upcoming workshop, "Coming Home to Your Body," which combines Feldenkrais practice with discussions on bodily wisdom and its everyday applications.

[01:02:00] - Seth connects improved perception and action with wisdom, emphasizing embodiment and the transformative power of revisiting past experiences.

[01:09:20] - Concluding thoughts on the conversation and its impact on Seth Dellinger's work and practices.