The emotive neuroscience of embodiment

Embodiment in psychological research and theory often refers to the idea that the body plays a crucial role in emotive, motivational,
and cognitive processes. We review past and recent embodiment research, focusing on neuroscientific work. In particular, we
review a growing body of evidence supporting the notion that manipulated facial expressions, hand contractions, and changes
in physical posture influence physiological activity related to approach motivation or the inclination to move toward a stimulus.
Several other perspectives are also considered, such as work related to facial-feedback theories of emotion, theories of grounded
or embodied cognition, and mirror neuron research. Ultimately, we conclude that bi-directionality may exist between certain
bodily movements and other components of approach- or avoidance-related emotions. Avenues for new research are considered
given these implications.