Moro, the startle reflex, is the more well-known of the defensive reflexes. Comprised of two integral parts, known often as ‘fling’ followed by ‘cling’, this reflex forms the foundation for our ability to mobilize to protect us from danger.
Known as the withdrawal reflex, Fear Paralysis is responsible for the body’s ability to immobilize, or freeze, for self-protection when one’s nervous system is threatened. Notably, the action of being immobile is just as critical to development as the early stages of mobilization in the body.
As a professional, I’m not trying to do it all but I am trying to make a difference with my work. I’m priming the nervous system to create a foundation, so that the child or adult is able to gain what they need from other therapies, or blast into areas of development. I can’t take away the stressors in life, but I can continue to help people build a stronger and stronger foundation, so they are more resilient and able to handle all of those stressors.
Winter Solstice marks the shortest day of the year, where daylight hours are fleeting and we become even more aware of light’s important role in regulating our circadian ‘clock’. Our circadian rhythms are not only responsible for guiding our sleep-wake cycle but also impact our body’s immune system, hormonal balance, cellular repair and overall cognition.
We’re pleased to introduce Keri Teague, MA, OTR/L at Thrive. A teacher, a parent, and newly, as an added resource working with clients at Thrive, Keri has been able to help her clients unlock the tools to understand and manage behavioral outcomes proactively. Her interest in the connections between sensory integration work and primitive reflexes led her to Thrive.
According to a 2023 study published in the Journal of Neurology & Experimental Neuroscience, students may benefit significantly by the incorporation of rhythmic movements in a classroom setting. By incorporating reflex integration work into a young student’s week, their learning will not only improve but just may soar.
In this case study, a client was diagnosed with a form of convergent eye deviation called accommodative esotropia. By focusing on crossing movements during his sessions, he was able to create the foundation for those fine motor movements that rehearse and integrate reflexes supporting his binocular vision and vestibular system.
In this case study, school refusal and social anxiety emerged for the client around age ten. We worked through his withdrawal, or retreating behavior rooted in his active fear paralysis, to build upon confidence and social engagement
Interoception is an awareness of one’s own internal sensations and signals. Movement supporting reflex integration can unlock an important awareness in therapy, and by actively participating in response, clients gain an understanding of their bodily connections and set important internal boundaries.
When someone explores a social context without safety or the properly integrated reflexes to cope, defensive reflexes take over and behaviors emerge. RMTi and the practice of rhythmic movement in therapy is a critical pathway to feeling safe and self-aware.
