“The word was born in the blood, grew in the dark body beating, and took flight through the lips and the mouth.” (Pablo Neruda)
Embodied Speaking
"Speech is the mirror of the soul; as a man speaks, so is he."
(Publilius Syrus, 1st C Latin writer of maxims)
The origin of language is direct experience. Embodied Speaking is the language of direct experience. It is a purposeful active practice to articulate the unity and coherence of action, feeling and thought.
The language of Embodied Practice is that of unfolding potential. Its vocabulary is non-evaluative, specific and non-habitual. It is often metaphorical and poetic.
Knowledge and control originates in the individual rather than external expertise or authority.
Percept Language
The term Percept Language originates from the studies and experiments of John Weir. Verbal articulation in percept language requires the individual to re-frame personal experiences in direct tangible and perceptual terms. One is required to consciously recognize one’s own judgements, interpretations, and projections. This promotes healthy self-differentiation and has a significant clarifying and beneficial effect both on personal experience and relationships with others.
More detailed information on John Weir and the development of
percept language can be found on
the Journal of Applied Behavioral Science website:
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“….people exploit what they conclude to be of value, but they defend what they love. For this we need a particularizing language, for we love what we particularly know. We need) the language of reverence and affection by which things of value ultimately are protected.” (Wendell Berry)