This test deals with the body system known as interoception.  Interoception is generally defined as a sense of the physiological state of the body.  You can think about it as self-awareness on a visceral level.

What is essential to understand about interoception is that it is PREDICTIVE in nature.  Your interoceptive system is monitoring your current homeostatic state, while also anticipating and preparing for upcoming physical demands. In athletic research, the accuracy of this preparation and subsequent DAMPENING of threat responses to homeostatic change are markers of elite athleticism.  

So, if your interoceptive system is off, you won’t be able to calmly monitor the physical changes that come with performing, and basically, your brain will freak out.

The main components of your interoceptive system are your vagus nerve and the insular lobe of your brain.   Take this quiz to get a sense of how your interoceptive system is functioning, and we’ll go through the anatomy (and what to do to boost your interoception) in class.

 

Required fields are marked *

1.It takes me a long time to warm up, both vocally and physically. *
2.I’ve had major trauma, injury or surgery involving midline structures of the body (pelvis, abdominal area, chest, back, throat, mouth, sinuses, eyes, etc.) *
3.I have a history of disorders of the abdomen or chest (reflux, asthma, bronchitis, IBS, etc.) *
4.I have problems with swallowing, digestion and/or elimination. *
5.I have a history of pelvic floor injury or dysfunction. *
6.I have a history of vertigo or of feeling “spacy.” *
7.I’m more sensitive to pain than the average person. *
8.I’m more ticklish than the average person. *
9.I have a history of anxiety or depression. *
10.I’ve experienced speech problems (particularly with pronouncing or articulating words.) *
11.I have periods where food tastes slightly strange or “off” compared to what I expect. *
12.Sometimes I feel like my body is not my own. *
13.I get sick a lot. *
14.Sometimes I have trouble focusing my attention. *
15.When eating, I can’t always tell when I’m full. *

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