The somatosensory cortex of the brain which was only known for receiving and processing sensory information from across the body like touch, temperature, and pain is now found to be the region that plays a significant role in regulating mental health.
Stimulating the somatosensory cortex may cater to improving the emotional experience and mental health and this can be implemented through practices like mindfulness and dance, said Adrianna Mendrek, Professor at Bishop's University, to the Conversation.
Research has earlier found structural and functional changes in the somatosensory cortex for individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Studies have found reduced cortical thickness and grey matter volume in individuals with depressive and bipolar disorder.
For unmedicated patients with schizophrenia, reduced activity of the somatosensory cortex was also observed.
This region of the brain receives information from all parts of the body. Moreover, due to its connection with other parts of the brain, anything affecting this region will equally impact the functioning of other regions of the central nervous system.
Mindfulness-based interventions and dance movement therapy help to stimulate the somatosensory cortex, thus helping to bring out the repressed memories outside and modify them.
More resilience is often observed in individuals who practice techniques like meditation where the practice of understanding bodily movements and sensations are used, says study.