. . . Our central nervous system becomes highly effective in several domains, subsequently allowing us to embody a strong and powerful presence. Bouncing on a ball produces the following physiological results:
- It promotes vestibular integration: the vestibular system provides information through the inner ear about gravity and space, about balance and movement, about our head and body position in relation to the surface of the earth and the physical world. It triggers our balance receptors and improves our posture. “Vestibular input seems to “prime” the entire nervous system to function effectively.” (taken from: Ayres, Jean, “Sensory Integration”)
- It stimulates the proprioceptive sense, which provides information through our joints, muscles, and ligaments about where our body parts are in space and what they are doing. Proprioception is the great organizer of all sensations – it increases alertness and decreases anxiety. It gives us emotional security, for when we can trust our bodies, we feel safe and secure. Bouncing provides deep pressure to the joints and muscles to strengthen proprioception which is very calming, alerting and organizing to the nervous system
- Bouncing stimulates the speech and language centers of the brain. You will most likely be more articulate when finished and will speak easily and fluently.
- It stimulates the Reticular Activating System, which is involved in the neural mechanisms that produce alertness and focused attention.
- It also requires you to use both sides of the body, which improves bilateral coordination, alertness, focus and posture.
- It requires you to use deep, belly breathing, which results in a richer, more resonant voice.
- Bouncing on a ball keeps you in the present: If you do not pay attention YOU WILL FALL OFF!
- It’s FUN!!! And it releases endorphins, which are associated with pleasure, control of emotions, memory and learning. And interrupts the release of cortisol and adreneline (the stress hormones) in your body.
Resources:
Ayres, Jean Sensory Integration and the Child, Western Psychological Services.
www.fitnesswholesale.com Theraband Balls;
Kranowitz, Carol. The Out-of-Sync Child. NY: The Berkley Publishing Group.
