embodied cognition

Embodied Cognition

Embodied cognition suggests that thinking involves not only the brain but the entire body. Embodied cognition recognizes factors other than viewing the mind as a computer within the skull that influence our thoughts, emotions, and decisions.

Posture

Moving

Feelings and mood

Surroundings

Fashion

Location in space,

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The brain does not think by itself. It thinks through the body.

The long sparkly coat with high collar and proper fit on chest and shoulders keeps model upright and confident

The core principle

Traditional view:

Brain → controls body

Embodied cognition view:

Brain ↔ Body → constantly influence each other

Your body affects how you feel mentally.

Basic Examples
1. Confidence and posture

Standing up straight with your shoulders back can make you feel more in charge and powerful. Slouching can make you feel more tired or insecure.

The body gives the brain information, which then changes the emotion.

2. Clothes and Who You Are

Studies show that when we wear clothing associated with intelligence or authority (like a lab coat or uniforms), our performance and focus can improve. This is called “enclothed cognition.”

The clothing changes how you stand, act, and see yourself.

3. Temperature and Mood

People think other people are nicer and warmer when they hold a warm cup of coffee.
Physical warmth affects how people see each other.

Parts of the Brain That Are Involved

Embodied cognition comprises multiple brain regions. It necessitates coordination among:

Somatosensory cortex (feelings in the body)

Motor cortex (movement)

Insula (awareness of the body's interior)

Prefrontal cortex (identity and making choices)

The limbic system is in charge of emotions.

The brain is always combining signals from muscles, skin, balance, and internal organs.

These signals are part of what makes up your thoughts.

Why It Matters in Fashion 

Clothes literally change how we think.

A jacket with structure:

Changes its position

Changes how you breathe

Tells authority

Affects how others react

A coat with rhinestones:

Changes the way light hits the body

Makes things look more visible

Increases social excitement

Promotes broader movement

The brain sees these changes in the body as changes in who you are.

You don't just put something on.
You change into something.

Mental Power

Embodied cognition explains the rationale for:

Wearing proper athletic clothing makes athletes perform and feel better.

Actors act better when they wear costumes.

Leaders feel more powerful in tailored suits.

Glitter makes things more exciting.

High collars make people look more powerful.

The body shows the brain how to feel.

A Definition in One Sentence

Embodied cognition posits that the mind is influenced by bodily movements, sensations, posture, and environmental factors, rather than solely by abstract thought.