Discover how emotional factors influence our posture and performance, and the importance of primitive reflexes in this process.
Welcome to the Neuro Quarter, where we discuss ground issues and seek avenues for reflection. Today, we tackle a common question: what are the reasons emotional factors block posture?
Before delving into the mental coaching aspect, it is crucial to understand the impact of primitive reflexes and human development. From childhood, sensory contacts are essential for developing the premotor and motor brain areas, which in turn allow for emotional development. There is a direct correlation between emotion and posture, with one developing alongside the other.
Primitive reflexes are the foundations of postural development. Take the example of the Fear Paralysis Reflex (FPR). While it allows for a quick reaction to danger, incorrect integration of this reflex can have significant consequences on posture. The FPR is indeed a precursor to the integration of other essential primitive reflexes, about a dozen of which depend on it for proper emergence and integration.
These reflexes are established very early, even during intrauterine life. The mother’s movements stimulate the development of vestibular and proprioceptive spheres. The passage through the birth canal also engages and develops many reflexes. In posturology, we often seek to rebalance posture by working on these primitive reflexes, which are the fundamental pillars of our bodily organization.
It is important to note that emotional factors are not always blockages. They can also enhance posture, depending on how they are perceived. This is why it is crucial to take them into account during a postural assessment, as they can alter posture almost instantly. A strong emotion, whether positive or negative, can significantly transform a person's postural profile.
Beyond posture, emotions impact motor and physical performance. The brain has a fundamental need for safety. If it does not feel safe, it switches to survival mode and activates defense mechanisms, which can manifest as poor posture, such as a tendency to hunch over. There is proven correlation between a hunched posture and stress.
Conversely, an open and confident posture, often associated with a self-assured person, can influence hormonal balance, such as testosterone levels. Studies show that two minutes in a "power" position can positively modify hormonal levels. This connection between posture, emotions, and hormones is also highlighted by osteocalcin, a hormone released by bone in response to stress, which contributes to the overall health of the body.
Contrary to popular belief, stress is not always detrimental; it is even necessary for our evolution. The goal is to avoid excess and learn to manage the various responses to stress: the "freeze," "fight," "flight," or "flow" states. The nervous system seeks a balance to allow us to navigate between these states.
If you do not feel safe, whether the threat is real or perceived, your system goes into survival mode. In this state, it is impossible to achieve optimal performance. The defense mechanisms put in place by the body primarily serve to protect you, which can alter posture and balance.
Working on the emotional aspect is fundamental. A simple element like breathing can have a direct impact on a sports session. Incorporating breathing exercises at the beginning of a session can lead to significant changes. The emotional factor is one of the first points addressed in our training and mentoring, underscoring its essential nature.
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