In the last ten years scientists have done amazing research about the intricate functions of the brain, and a link between the balance system and disorders like ADHD, Dyslexia, Learning difficulties and other behavioural issues.
The basis of this principle lies within the relationship between the vestibular system ( found in the inner ear ), which is part of the balance system, and the cerebellum...
The cerebellum is located just above the brain stem, at the base of the skull and is sometimes referred to as the 'little brain'. The cerebellum is know to be the center of gross motor skills, balance and equilibrium and muscle tone, but research is now showing it has a major role in cognition and behavior as well. One of the major problems for children with Dyslexia or learning difficulties is that they not using both sides of the brain effectively, and communication between the two is scattered, or heavily relies on one side( usually the right side) to do all the work. This makes the job of processing information that is being received, very difficult. Perceiving words or letters backwards, or not understanding a sentence is a common issue for these children / adults. This makes it very difficult to read and write, and this in turn starts a defective cycle of learning.
ADD/ADHD is a topic that evokes great debate from many professionals, teachers and parents. Children with ADHD are often prescribed Ritalin, an amphetamine derived stimulant. This helps to speed up brain processing speeds..........weight loss, insomnia, sleep delay, abdominal pain, headaches, dry mouth, dizziness, depression are some of the symptoms associated with taking this drug. There are many programs such as the breakthrough learning centre, who use a programme of balance and sensory stimulation as an alternative to drug treatment, and have had some amazing results.
ADHD, Dyslexia and behavioural problems do not have any one miracle cure, and I believe many things must be taken into consideration before an effective treatment begins for anyone with these symptoms. What I can say is that by stimulating the cerebellum through balance, is actually a brain workout. Slacklining incorporates the use of both sides of the body, and so uses both sides of the brain, strengthening the neuron pathways between the left and right hemispheres. The more challenging the balance, the faster and more effectively the brain must work in order to respond to the information that it is receiving.
Can you see any connection?
Over the past two years we have run workshops for many children who exhibit these problems, and the greatest thing that I can say about Slacklining is that they get a direct experience of being in a relaxed, calm and focused state, where they are totally present with their body and mind...... The get an instant result, they fall off if they lose focus, and stay on when they remain focused. For them focus is just a word, but its the experience of being focused, relaxed and balanced that is vital, the more time they spend in this state, the better. The best part about Slacklining is........THEY HAVE SO MUCH FUN, they will want to get on again and again!
Please contact us if you would like more information about this topic or our workshops and programmes.
