Embodying the body in anorexia nervosa – a physiotherapeutic approach

SummaryBody dissatisfaction and disturbances in bodily sensations are prevailing qualities among patients with anorexia nervosa (AN). However, therapies addressing the body are typically marginalized within treatment programs for anorexia nervosa. The purpose of this article is to 1) describe common bodily symptoms and experiences of anorexia nervosa patients and discuss the accompanying physical and emotional impact, and 2) present physiotherapeutic approaches to help patients with anorexia nervosa. Recommendations are based on the author’s clinical observations and patient testimonials, in addition to the theory and methodology outlined by Norwegian Psychomotor Physiotherapy (NPMP), body awareness therapies, and current knowledge on bodily stability. It is the author’s experience that anorexia nervosa patients tend to have significant impairments in their body awareness, a restricted breathing pattern, significant muscular tension, poor postural stability, and they are frequently engaged in compulsive physical activity. A body awareness approach for these patients may contribute to novel ways of sensing and interpreting bodily signals, improving emotional awareness, experiencing the body and integrating the body as one’s own, i.e., becoming an embodied person. Embodying the body in patients with anorexia nervosa by utilizing approaches from NPMP and body awareness therapies, in addition to stability training principles, may help stabilize the body and the mind, and thus, constitute a beneficial addition to overall treatment for anorexia nervosa.