What is the Eighth Sense?
We all know about our 5 senses: sight, hearing, taste, touch, and smell - these senses help us navigate the world around us by gathering external information. But did you know there are 3 other senses that play a vital role in our sensory system?
Among them are proprioception, which helps us understand where our body parts are in space, and the vestibular sense, which helps with balance and movement.
One of the most powerful yet often overlooked senses is interoception, also known as the "eighth sense."
Interoception supports our ability to notice, interpret, and respond to internal bodily sensations, such as hunger, thirst, pain, and emotions. Our interoceptive system helps us detect these signals and understand what our body needs in response. Interoceptive awareness is closely linked to emotional regulation, enabling us to tune into our body’s unique signals. By developing this awareness, we can better meet our needs, leading to a more balanced and harmonious life.
“There is no wrong way to feel. Interoception work is all about helping people to discover their own inner feels, to validate each person’s unique inner experience”
Interoception is at the Heart of Regulation
What does that mean?
From an early age, the development of regulation is rooted in the connections we establish with caregivers who provide safety and attunement. This process, known as co-regulation, is vital for children as they rely on trusted adults to help them navigate their emotions and develop healthy regulation patterns. Without these supportive relationships, children may struggle to fully develop the skills they need to thrive.
Our ability to regulate hinges on understanding our body's internal signals, known as interoception. This awareness of “body cues” is essential for staying focused and grounded. At Eighth Sense Wellness, we foster this awareness through mindful movement, body awareness activities, and sensory integrative practices to help deepen self-understanding.
With a deeper connection to our bodies, we can better understand our emotions and give our bodies what they need to feel regulated. This applies to people of all ages, but for children, self-regulation skills are not fully developed. That's why it's so important to act as steady, calm co-regulators, helping guide them toward balance and emotional well-being and setting the tone for positive growth.
At Eighth Sense Wellness, we believe:
Everyone processes and interacts with the world in their own unique way, and we honor and embrace those differences. We respect each individual's personal journey, validating their inner experience as entirely their own. Every way of being is valid, and our goal is to nurture a deeper understanding of oneself, fostering self-acceptance and personal growth.
Co-regulation is key. Co-regulation is the process of sharing calm, supportive energy with others to help them feel safe and balanced. When we feel connected to someone who is calm and grounded, it naturally helps us regulate our own emotions and stress. This shared sense of safety builds trust and mutual respect, forming the foundation for growth. When individuals feel secure and valued in their relationships, they become more open to learning, exploring, and building meaningful connections. Co-regulation is a vital part of fostering emotional resilience and personal development.
Connection over compliance. Through every offering we provide, we offer them as an invitation, never a demand. Choice and autonomy over your own body is crucial for building relationship, safety, and learning.
We are not here to fix. We lead all OT sessions, yoga classes, and women’s circles with the principle that we are all right and valid for our own experience. We choose to nurture each person’s own understand and inner experience. We meet you where you are with less judgement, and more acceptance.
Trauma-informed sessions are crucial in emphasizing the importance of a felt sense of safety and connection. We prioritize creating a secure and supportive environment that fosters trust and comfort.
Self-agency is encouraged. We support all individuals in expressing their needs and accommodations in their environment through alternative methods that cater to their individual needs.
This is a team approach. Whether you're a child, adult, or family member, we work closely with everyone involved in your care and well-being, ensuring personalized and high-quality support.
Our Vision.
To empower individuals of all brains, bodies, and abilities to nurture their well-being and cultivate emotional regulation and resilience, enabling them to lead meaningful, fulfilling lives.
Our Mission.
At Eighth Sense Wellness, we support children, teens, adults, and families by fostering interoceptive awareness, sensory regulation, and emotional well-being. Through evidence-based occupational therapy and yoga practices, we create inclusive, compassionate spaces that honor each individual's journey toward self-acceptance and meaningful participation in daily life.