06/07/2023
For years, I dealt with re-occurring episodes of stiff, painful neck and shoulder muscles. Over time, these episodes became more and more frequent and when TMJ and daily headaches set in, I didn’t immediately recognize the connection. 😔
👉 Then I learned of Sensory Motor Amnesia (SMA): A state in which the part of the brain that regulates muscle tension, the sensory-motor cortex, and the muscle have lost the ability to communicate effectively. Why? If a muscle or group of muscles is chronically contracted, the nervous system eventually considers this contracted state as the new resting tone. When this happens, we lose voluntary control. The autonomic nervous system has taken over. Therapies that address the muscle in isolation, such as massage, heat and physical therapy will only bring temporary relief at best.
👉 The good news is that SMA is reversible. Efficient communication between brain and muscle can be restored through neuromuscular reeducation that addresses both the sensory-motor cortex and the muscle. Once I started a Somatic Movement practice and was finally able to release chronically tight muscles, the daily headaches vanished.
✍ Leave a comment if you have tried any form of somatic movement. What was your experience? Or maybe you practice somatic movement regularly.
👉 If you think you may be experiencing SMA, have reoccuring muscle pain, TMJ or headaches, you can check out my classes on my website www.explore-somatics.com or PM me here.
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