Neuroscience of Embodiment: The Brain–Body Dialogue

Abstract

The neuroscience of embodiment explores how the brain and body continuously interact to generate perception, cognition, action, and the sense of self. Historically, neuroscience treated cognition as primarily brain-centered; however, contemporary research reveals a bi-directional brain–body dialogue in which bodily signals shape neural dynamics and, reciprocally, the brain modulates bodily states. This review synthesizes findings from interoception research, sensorimotor integration, predictive processing, and functional neuroimaging to present an integrated account of the neural mechanisms underlying embodiment. We discuss how internal bodily signals (e.g., heartbeat, respiration) contribute to self-awareness and emotion, the role of sensorimotor loops in shaping cognition, and theoretical frameworks such as predictive coding that formalize brain–body interactions. We also highlight clinical, developmental, and computational perspectives, illustrating how embodiment informs understanding of neurological and psychiatric conditions as well as human–machine interfaces. Overall, recognizing the brain–body dialogue enriches traditional models of cognition and consciousness, providing a more coherent framework for future research in cognitive neuroscience and embodied mind theory.