The illness known as sensory processing disorder (SPD) causes problems for the brain in terms of taking in and processing information from the senses. Individuals diagnosed with SPD may exhibit hyperresponsiveness (oversensitivity) or hyporesponsiveness (underreaction) to sensory stimuli. This can show up in a number of ways, such finding it easier to relax in crowded or noisy places, avoiding particular textures or feelings, or actively seeking out specific sensory input.
A balancing cushion is one device that has been proven to be useful in supporting those with sensory demands. These cushions, which are sometimes referred to as wobble cushions or stability discs, are air-filled inflatable discs that may be used to create a dynamic surface for sitting or standing on a chair or the ground. The balancing cushion’s uneven surface forces the user to work their core muscles in order to stay balanced, which gives them sensory input that can assist focus and calm their nervous system.
A balance cushion can help people with various sensory needs in different ways:
Enhancing focus and attention: People who suffer from sensory processing disorders frequently find it difficult to stay focused and pay attention, particularly in hectic or overstimulating situations. A balancing cushion can assist activate the vestibular system and enhance proprioceptive input by offering a dynamic surface for sitting or standing, which can enhance focus and attention.
Calming and balancing the nervous system: A balancing cushion’s sensory input can help control the nervous system, which lowers tension and anxiety levels. People with sensory demands may experience a relaxing sensation from the cushion’s little rocking or swaying action, which makes them feel more centred and grounded.
Building core stability and strength: In order to keep balance when using a balancing cushion, a person must contract their core muscles. Over time, this may assist to strengthen and stabilise the core, which may help with general posture and balance.
Promoting proprioceptive awareness and movement: Many people with sensory requirements actively seek out specific kinds of sensory input, such movement or deep pressure. By integrating movement and proprioceptive input into daily tasks, balance cushions assist people in regulating their sensory systems and maintaining attention and alertness.
Increasing body awareness and posture: People with sensory needs may find it difficult to maintain a steady and comfortable posture when sitting for extended periods of time. By helping the user to sit or stand in a more erect and balanced posture, balancing cushions can assist improve body awareness and posture.
Endorsing sensory integration therapy: The goal of sensory integration therapy is to help people with sensory processing disorders become more adept at processing and reacting to sensory input. Using balancing cushions can help people practise abilities like balance, coordination, and body awareness while also incorporating sensory input into daily activities. Balancing cushions are a useful tool in sensory integration treatment.
Improving proprioceptive feedback: Proprioception is the sense that tells us where our bodies are in relation to one another and how they move. People who suffer from sensory processing disorders may have trouble processing proprioceptive information, which can cause problems with body awareness and coordination. A balancing cushion can aid increase proprioceptive feedback and an individual’s ability to move and navigate their environment by offering a dynamic surface for sitting or standing.
In general, balance cushions offer a means of integrating movement, proprioceptive input, and sensory regulation into daily activities, making them an invaluable resource for those with sensory demands. Balancing cushions can assist people with sensory processing disorder improve their focus and attention, control their nervous system, build core strength and stability, and improve their overall body awareness and posture. They can be used at home, in schools, or in treatment settings. People with sensory requirements might benefit from sensory input and become more adept at navigating and interacting with their surroundings by adding a balance cushion to their daily routine.