Learn how to actually “Listen to your body”... with science!

Use code “PODCAST” for $10 off your first month of Essentials of Slink! (Try a month of classes for the cost of a single drop in 👀) https://www.slinkthroughstrength.com/essentials-of-slink-home-pole-membership

In this episode, we explore the concept of 'listening to your body' and its significance, especially for pole dancers. The discussion covers the senses of proprioception (body's position in space) and interoception (internal body signals), and how understanding these can improve both dance and daily life. Research on perceptual learning reveals that improving proprioception through focused training, even in neurodivergent individuals, is both possible and beneficial. Practical tips include balance training, tactile feedback, and removing visual inputs to enhance proprioceptive acuity. Additionally, members and listeners are thanked for their support, with details on joining online classes provided.

Are you a pole nerd interested in trying out online pole classes with Slink Through Strength? We’d love to have you! Use the code “podcast” for 10% off the Intro Pack and try out all of our unique online pole classes: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/catalog/25a67bd1/?productId=1828315&clearCart=true

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Listening to Your Body

01:34 Understanding Body Signals: Interoception and Proprioception

06:08 The Role of Neurodivergence and Hypermobility

07:26 Perceptual Learning: Enhancing Body Awareness

12:00 Practical Tips for Improving Proprioception

18:54 Conclusion and Class Information

Learn more about the vestibular system & balance: https://www.slinkthroughstrength.com/science-of-slink-podcast/how-to-do-spin-pole-without-getting-dizzy

Citations:

Aman, J. E., Elangovan, N., Yeh, I. L., & Konczak, J. (2015). The effectiveness of proprioceptive training for improving motor function: a systematic review. Frontiers in human neuroscience, 8, 1075.

Godde, B., Stauffenberg, B., Spengler, F., & Dinse, H. R. (2000). Tactile coactivation-induced changes in spatial discrimination performance. Journal of Neuroscience, 20(4), 1597-1604.

Gibson, E. J., & Walk, R. D. (1960). The" visual cliff". Scientific American, 202(4), 64-71.

Kapp, S. K. (2025). Sensory–movement underpinnings of lifelong neurodivergence: getting a grip on autism. Frontiers in Integrative Neuroscience, 19, 1489322.