Proprioception
The hidden sense that tells you where your body is in space — how you touch your nose with your eyes closed.
The sense that tells you where your body parts are in the space around you without looking. It is how you can touch your nose with your eyes closed, or walk without watching your feet. In dyspraxia and SPD, proprioception often works differently, which is why coordination, balance, and body awareness can be challenging.
How it works
Your muscles, joints, and tendons send constant signals to your brain about your body's position. When proprioception works differently, you might bump into doorframes, use too much force, or feel disconnected from your physical self. Deep pressure and heavy movement can help recalibrate this sense.
Think of it like
It's like GPS for your body — when the signal is strong, you move confidently. When it's fuzzy, you navigate by guesswork.
What it feels like
You might feel clumsy, bump into things, or not know how close you are to objects. Or you might crave deep pressure because it helps your body feel 'found.'