Interoception
- Posted by spectrum
- On May 23, 2022
- 0
What is it?
Interoception is a newly recognised bodily sense that refers to all the internal sensations of the body e.g. heart beat, hunger, full bladder, tense muscles. It is the ability to feel what is happening in our body.
Why is it important?
Interoception is also closely linked to a child or person’s REGULATION, COMFORT and their ability to build POSITIVE EMOTIONAL CONNECTIONS.
For a person to be able to recognise their body’s signs to eat, go to the toilet, recognise their body signs in stressful situations (sweaty palms, heart beating faster) are all vital to their daily functioning.
Interoception and emotions
Being able to feel our emotions is also tied to Interoception. When you are hungry, you might feel more angry or tired. When you need to speak to a large group of people, you might feel the need to go to the toilet or have ‘butterflies in your stomach’. Research has shown the ability to recognise these signals can improve how well we identify and regulate our emotional state. In relation, this can lead to how well you read someone else’ physical and emotional cues.
Improving Interoception
There is research to support the improvement of interoception through Body Mindfulness.
‘To focus on the present moment of one’s awareness of sensations, emotions and thoughts.’
The most common form of this is through Yoga and Meditation (See below).
3 Minutes Body Scan Meditation – Mindfulness For Kids And Adults
Guided Meditation for Kids | BODY SCAN | Mindfulness for Children
Paw Patrol | Yoga for Kids
Remember
- It is not always helpful to label their emotion rather encourage them to read their body signs
- “Your hands are tight in a fist. What are you feeling right now?”
- Everyone’s ability to feel emotions and recognise their body cues are different (some may feel hunger or pain more than others)