Somatic learning: Bringing the body into critical reflection

Abstract

Critical reflection is a process of bringing unquestioned assumptions to the fore for critique, through paying attention to dissatisfactions, discrepancies, tensions and contradictions in experience. It is important because it helps reveal the complexities for and against learning that are embedded in a particular context. Aesthetics and a focus on emotional and political dynamics are two approaches already being used to encourage learning through critical reflection. However, this article argues there is still more benefit to be gained from understanding how and why a focus on the body can support critically reflective perspectives on learning. My contribution is to illustrate how Buddhist practices of mindfulness meditation and associated philosophy can inform a somatic learning process that connects bodily sensation to cognition.