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Interoception as a central mechanism in Whole Person Health
Wen G Chen1, Helene M Langevin1
1National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America.
Plos Biology
|November 13, 2025
Summary
Interoception, the sense of the body's internal state, is crucial for Whole Person Health. Further research and new interventions are needed to understand and promote self-regulation via interoceptive signals.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
- Integrative Health
Background:
- Interoception, the perception of internal bodily signals, is increasingly recognized as fundamental to overall well-being.
- Understanding interoception is vital for a holistic approach to health, often termed Whole Person Health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the potential role of interoception as a core mechanism in Whole Person Health.
- To identify the need for advancements in research and technology to fully elucidate the functions of interoception.
- To emphasize the necessity of developing novel interventions that leverage interoceptive signals for physiological self-regulation.
Main Methods:
- This study is a conceptual review and synthesis of existing research on interoception.
- It involves analyzing the current state of technological tools and mechanistic research in the field.
- It explores potential avenues for therapeutic interventions targeting interoceptive pathways.
Main Results:
- Interoception is proposed as a key, yet underexplored, component of Whole Person Health.
- Current technologies and research methods are insufficient for a comprehensive understanding of interoception's role.
- There is a clear need for the development of new interventions to enhance self-regulation through interoceptive awareness.
Conclusions:
- Interoception holds significant promise for advancing the concept of Whole Person Health.
- Significant investment in technological innovation and mechanistic research is required.
- Developing targeted interventions is essential to harness interoceptive signals for improved health outcomes.
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