A post by Mark Walsh, 8 Ways Our Bodies Are Linked to Social Control highlights the many ways our society imposes control. It brought to my mind another recent post about specialized desks that have been installed in a Kentucky school. When I first read the item about the desks I thought it was a great idea and a recognition that some kids need to move more than others. That's one view.
Another is that this is another way our institutions impose control on "disruptive" kids. Another view is that the desks serve a similar purpose as medication for so-called "ADHD". Many of us recognize that, instead of a pathological, medical condition, excessive movement may be a sign of anxiety and anxiety may be a sign of unresolved trauma. It may also be a sign that our institutions are demanding more and more compliance and less and less individuality.
We are also recognizing that trauma happens in the body and the body's experiences need to be validated as well as the story. We are finding ways to work with the body: Trauma-Sensitive Yoga, Equine Therapy, Somatic Experiencing. Body-oriented work addresses aspects of the trauma response that cognitive work cannot. Yet, we need to be mindful that when we work with the body we are working with the whole person.
I wonder what it's like to be one of those kids sitting at a desk where he/she is required to stay but able to move in place? Being trapped is one of the components that distinguishes Complex PTSD. More and more schools are decreasing recess time, even for Kindergarten students. Even with dogs, there is current understanding that the pet needs, not only to move, but to be exposed to a variety of environments: sights, smells and textures. Humans need a rich experience of life in order for the brain to fully develop.
Let's strive for working with the whole person when we offer help and support.
Here's the beginning of the post by Mark Walsh:
When I was in school, I remember being made to sit in a chair but wanting to move. I remember the stiff uniform and hard shoes, which made it harder to move too.
We were allowed to move in physical education lessons, but even then, it involved rules and competition. Some teachers saw my restlessness and let me go for walks, but I got into conflicts with others....
...Here are some ways the body and social control are linked:
1. As children, we’re told to sit still and do as we’re told. This shows a clear connection between lack of movement and control. As adults, most office workers have to do this as well on a daily basis. The result is that it numbs us. We need to take breaks from sitting still.
To continue reading this article by Mark Walsh, go to: http://www.elephantjournal.com/2016/03/8-ways-that-our-bodies-are-linked-to-social-control-why-we-should-be-critical/
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