O corpo vivo : um mensageiro do afeto

Abstract

This research aim was to investigate how the affective dimension and the body are involved in illness and human existential health. We sought to understand what the body is, what affection is and then reflect on how the affective dimension and the body affect the individual's illness. The work was carried out from the phenomenological theoretical foundation. The applied methodology consisted of qualitative bibliographic research. This investigation was motivated by the observation of cases in which clients who sought psychological care at the clinic and reported pain and symptoms in their bodies as a relevant complaint, often with no reason to justify the symptoms according to the exams and health professionals previously consulted. This research helped to develop a greater perception and listening to what is observed on and through the client's body. It also broadened the understanding of health and illness as a multifactorial and unique process, helping health professionals to understand the person who becomes ill as a being with potential, free and co-author of his existence.