Discover the RNP Development Pyramid, which connects sensory input to performance, and the importance of sensory foundations for optimizing motor skills and performance.
Welcome to this episode of the lab quarter hour! Today, we will explore a key idea of neuropostural reprogramming: the development pyramid that goes from sensory input to performance.
Often, when we talk about motor skills and cognition, we think everything happens in the cortex, but in reality, it all starts much lower, in our sensory receptors. These receptors send information to the brain about the body's position in space, known as proprioception.
The signals come from several systems:
This information, sent by cranial nerves, conditions our motor skills. For example, without sensory input, the motor cortex cannot produce anything precise.
Once sensory information is received, it moves to the sensorimotor stage. Here, reflexes and automatic loops come into play.
In the mother's womb, the brain is already establishing these reflex circuits. For example, the asymmetrical tonic neck reflex coordinates the movements of the eyes, head, and limbs, while other reflexes help adjust muscle tone.
These reflexes are not useless; they are essential for a quick and automatic response, and their absence makes every voluntary movement uncertain.
Voluntary movement, often seen as free, actually depends on the previous stages. The motor cortex, once the sensory and sensorimotor foundations are established, can then plan and execute movements.
For example, a child who has difficulty writing may actually have an active asymmetrical tonic neck reflex, making their motor cortex less effective.
Once these three levels are calibrated, performance can be achieved, whether at the physical, cognitive, or emotional level. Performance is the pinnacle of this pyramid and relies on a solid reflex stability.
In conclusion, working on performance without the support of sensory input is like building a house on sand. At Labour RNP, we always start by assessing sensory systems and voluntary motor skills.
We offer assessments and online follow-ups for parents, as well as training for coaches and therapists. For all those who follow our work, a free guide is also available to discover the basics of neuropostural reprogramming.
Thank you for listening, and remember: before performance, there is always sensation.
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