Developmentembodying
Developmentembodying is an approach to development practice and theory that treats developmental outcomes as inseparable from the lived, embodied experience of individuals and communities. It foregrounds how physical presence, sensoria, mobility, health, and social relationships shape what is possible, desirable, and sustainable in any development endeavor. Proponents argue that knowledge, agency, and well-being emerge through embodied participation, not solely through abstract plans or indicators.
Its theoretical roots lie in embodiment theories across philosophy, anthropology, and cognitive science, and in participatory
Practices and methods include participatory action research, co-design workshops, narrative and ethnographic methods, body-centered facilitation, drama
Potential benefits include richer context-sensitive insights, legitimacy of the process, improved relevance and uptake of interventions,
Notable considerations include ensuring culturally appropriate interpretations of embodiment, safeguarding privacy, and aligning embodied methods with