From Being Moved to Being Still: Kama Muta Reduces Postural Sway Velocity

Abstract

Objectives

Grounded in embodiment theory, this exploratory study examines whether kama muta (as being moved/touched) elicits measurable changes in postural sway (subtle body movement even during stillness) reflecting an emotional–motor connection.

Methods

Data were collected from 87 university students (aged 18–43 years, M = 22.22, SD = 3.20). Participants viewed six video clips (kama muta and neutral condition) while standing on a force plate that recorded their postural sway. After each video, participants rated their feelings of being moved on a 5-point Likert scale.

Results

Kama muta was associated with a significant reduction in sway velocity compared to the neutral condition (p = 0.003), with no significant differences in mean amplitude (p = 0.31). Sway velocity and amplitude decreased significantly in the second half of the kama muta condition (p < 0.001), indicating intensification of the emotional effect. No significant correlations emerged between self-reported emotional ratings and sway metrics (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Findings indicate a possible stabilizing effect of kama muta on postural control, promoting physical grounding during emotional experiences. While the homogeneous sample limits generalizability, these results enhance our understanding of emotional embodiment and suggest potential applications for fostering emotional and social connection. Future research should explore these mechanisms by including comprehensive emotion assessments and additional measures to identify muscular activation patterns.