reclaiming Bodily Awareness: A Review of Caroline Arbor’s “Inhabit Our Bodies“
The pervasive societal tendency to dismiss or normalize women’s pain is powerfully challenged in physiotherapist Caroline Arbor’s book, Inhabit Our Bodies.This work, described as a blend of essay, manifesto, and practical guide, offers a multidisciplinary approach to understanding and addressing pain, notably concerning perineal and pelvic health. Arbor’s project, inspired in part by the work Loto-men, moves beyond simply acknowledging pain to actively dismantling the cultural narratives that minimize and trivialize women’s experiences.
Inhabit Our Bodies distinguishes itself through its extensive scope, integrating scientific research with historical context, cultural analysis, and emotional understanding. This holistic framework is further enriched by personal testimonies and concrete exercises designed to empower readers to reconnect with their bodies and recognize the signals they are sending.
The book’s core message is a radical one: pain is not an certain part of the female experience. Arbor advocates for a shift in viewpoint,urging readers to reject the notion that discomfort is simply “normal” and instead prioritize listening to and respecting their body’s needs.
Published by Les Éditions Cardinal ($30), Inhabit Our Bodies is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of pain and reclaim agency over their physical well-being. It is particularly relevant for those interested in perineal and pelvic health, offering a nuanced and empowering perspective on these often-overlooked areas.
Available for purchase at: https://www.leslibraires.ca/livres/habiter-nos-corps-caroline-arbour-9782925078821.html?a=1248
Proudly a local purchase from Quebec ⚜︎
Worth a look