ENGAGING INTEROCEPTION FOR NERVOUS SYSTEM BALANCE

Interoception is the sense of the internal environment of the body. It is the ability to feel the position and movement of the internal organs, as well as changes in temperature, pressure, and pain.

The interoceptive system is constantly sending information to the brain about the state of the body. This information is used to regulate many important functions, including heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, and digestion.

Interoception is often thought of as the “sixth sense”. It is important for survival, as it allows us to respond to changes in our environment. For example, if we feel pain, we know to move away from the source of the pain.

Interoception is also important for emotional regulation. It helps us to understand our feelings and to respond in an appropriate way. For example, if we feel anxious, we may take deep breaths to calm down.

Many people in today’s world have a poor sense of interoception. This can lead to problems with emotional regulation and may be a contributing factor to anxiety and depression. The problem is, when we become disconnected from our bodies, our bodies then learn to send stronger signals our way to get our attention, often to the point where those signals feel debilitating.

Engaging in embodiment activities that bring awareness to the physical body increases interoception. Inside the NeuroFit app, this includes Ventral Vagal BALANCE exercises such as Belly Ball Rolling, Body Tapping, Arm & Leg Squeezes, and Lower Belly Massage.

Other such activities include yoga, meditation, and breathwork, which can help to increase awareness of the body and the breath and in turn, awareness of the interoceptive system. By increasing interoceptive awareness, embodiment practices help improve emotional regulation and nervous system balance.