Live a life brimming with sensory awareness

View from Makapu'u Point trail offering an outstanding view of O'ahu's southeastern coastline. Copyright Susan McIntire 2024. All rights reserved.

What is Sensory Fitness?

Sensory fitness is about more than improving awareness via our five basic senses. It's a holistic approach to living that emphasizes mindfulness and the conscious engagement of our environment through sensory experiences. When we pair this awareness with mindful interactions, we align ourselves with the understanding that every action has a corresponding reaction. Sensory practice helps us awaken to the impact of our interactions. As we translate this philosophical understanding into daily actions, we can manifest these principles through sensory engagement.

The Situation

Incorporating sensory fitness into our daily lives is not merely a spiritual or abstract endeavor. It is a practical way to improve our daily experiences and interactions. It connects ancient wisdom with modern everyday life.

The Solution

It's important to note that each mindful act, from noticing a leaf's details to feeling the smooth texture of a kitchen counter, is an exercise in awareness. Each tiny observation contributes to a larger pattern of positive energy and influence.

Sensory Fitness goes hand in hand with awareness

Understanding awareness involves recognizing that our every action generates energy that influences the world, shaping our future experiences and those around us. Engaging our senses is a natural way to be mindful. It improves our sensory experiences and creates positive energy that helps the whole world.

Pros:

By enhancing and engaging in sensory awareness and using these perceptions, we encourage a deeper connection with ourselves and the environment.
Sensory connections build a profound understanding that every touch and breath reverberates, affecting ourselves and our environment in meaningful ways.
The beauty of this approach is the simultaneous nurturing of our inner selves while we engage outwardly in simple acts. For example, when we notice the warmth of clothes fresh from the dryer as we fold them, we enhance sensory clarity.
Tuning in impacts our understanding of the world, shaping how we relate to others.

Cons:

Ignoring sensory fitness can lead to diminished awareness of your surroundings. This makes it harder to fully engage with and enjoy life.
Without strong sensory awareness, you may overlook subtle cues, missing opportunities for deeper personal connections and richer interactions.
Neglecting sensory engagement might make you feel more stressed. You may fail to notice and use calming stimuli naturally present in your environment.
Failing to focus on sensory fitness can lead to a disconnection from your senses, potentially lessening your sense of well-being.

Conclusion:

Our efforts at sensory awareness support sensory fitness in a personal and communal way. The clarity of our shared experiences creates a cycle of mutual growth. The more attuned we are, the richer the experience we can facilitate for ourselves and others. Such clarity elevates our awareness and aligns our actions with mindful interactions that lead to positive outcomes and deeper connections. This personal practice has ripple effects, extending beyond us to influence our broader communities. For instance, a study by Rhino UK highlighted the significant benefits of sensory activities in care homes. Personalized sensory engagement, from gardening to sensory therapy sessions, enhances well-being, maintains cognitive function, and reduces loneliness and isolation among older people.¹

Footnotes

Rhino UK Study ↩

About

Susan McIntire McIntire

Susan McIntire is the author of Your Sensory Fitness, a guide to improving quality of life through sensory awareness, well-being, and a deep connection with nature, enriched with art and poetry.

August 10, 2024