Research Behind Brain Integration

The human brain is a marvel of connections and synapses, constantly evolving and adapting. At its core, Brain Integration taps into the science of neuroplasticity – the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. When we are stressed, anxious, or traumatized, certain neural pathways may become dominant, hindering our capacity to learn.

• Being Present: Brain Integration exercises helps indviduals anchor themselves in the present. Noticing and focusing on the “here and now” reduces anxiety by shutting down ruminating thoughts and memories that might distract from learning.
• Sensory Engagement: By engaging the five senses, children and adults can ground themselves and recognise their emotional state. This awareness helps them self-soothe and regulate their emotions, creating a more receptive mental state for learning.
• Physical Movements: Exercises incorporate physical movements to stimulate different parts of the brain. As an example, the importance and impact on midline movements.

Observational studies indicate that people who regularly engage in Brain Integration techniques show improved focus, reduced anxiety, and enhanced learning outcomes. Activities like grounding exercises and sensory awareness can notably reduce the stress hormone, cortisol, making the brain more amenable to learning. Brain integration may not work for everyone, that is why we adopt a tailored approach.

Brain Integration combines principals of Applied Kinesiology with modern learning theory. It’s a unique approach that helps the brain and body work together more effectively.

Applied Kinesiology is the study of muscles and how they can be tested to assess the body’s balance. Brain integration uses this information to identify and address imbalances in brain function.

Brain integration encourages the hemispheres of the brain to reconnect by using specific exercises such as crossing the midline. By helping the left and right sides of the brain communicate better, brain integration can improve focus, learning, and coordination. It’s been shown to be effective in reducing or eliminating dyslexia, ADD, handwriting issues, and other learning difficulties in children, teens, and adults.

These techniques have been developed over two decades and draw on various disciplines to address learning challenges.

Use within sessions with Livvy: Setting the Stage for Learning

Imagine a Formula One race. Before the intense race begins, drivers do slower laps to “warm up” their engines. Similarly, brain integration may help set the stage for effective learning to process trauma, overcome blocks in learning and “reset” negative belief patterns.

To begin simply drinking a glass of water can hydrate the brain giving it the fuel it needs to perform cognitive activities. During a session Brain integration may take the form of physical movements, breathing techniques, use of the senses and guided visualisation to help clients set and work towards achieving their goals.

Brain integration is a therapeutic process that encourages connection with our bodies and inner self, which enables you to identify your reactions and feelings to a task or event. Grounding exercises, such as using the five senses, helps connect with the present moment, while gross motor movements stimulate blood flow around the body. Finally, new beliefs are anchored into the brain by using somatic or sensory cues. Depending on what works best for you, sensory cues like colours, numbers, sounds and smells can help embed new learning and also to help create a roadmap for the learning journey.

Remember, it’s not just about the destination (the learning outcome) but also the journey. By making the journey pleasant and engaging, Brain Integration aspires to give us the best shot at reaching our learning potential.