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Proprioceptors and practicing Balance. The Importance of Functional Movement:

By Activities, Body2 min read

How we sense our body in space is call proprioception. We also have extroception (where am I in relation to the external world/things), and introception (what are the micro movements and sensations in my body I am aware of). All are forms of intelligence and all help us “know” our world through experience.

Where your body is in space is called kinesthetic awareness. This form of intelligence helps you move with efficiency and safety. Some of us have it better than others – think coordination and grace. To test yours – quickly put your arms out parallel to the floor. Notice – are your arms straight out from the shoulders? Are they really parallel to the floor? Are your wrists cocked or straight? Notice where you sense the movement from.

Now stand on one foot and notice how and where your body shifts. These are often micro movements and include mini adjustments based on your body’s sense of where it is in space and where it’s need to go. Balance is learned. Many of us don’t remember learning to walk however we did learn how to hold our body in space.

As we age the less we move … then the less we move. This negative cycle creates all sorts of problems in the body. People move less and then begin to fear moving because they begin to lose balance.

Today practice using these forms of intelligence by checking into your physical sensations and space using mindful awareness via a moment to pause. Set an alarm for random times throughout the day. When it goes off, notice how you are holding the body, micro movements, and where you are in space.