Sensory Processing Health and Wellness

Sensory processing refers to the mechanisms of how we feel. It is how we use what we sense to make sense of the world around us, and it underpins every aspect of human functioning. Everyone processes sensation. The sensory messages we receive from our bodies and the world around us are responded to in every single thing we do in life. In each instance, our sensory systems provide vital information that we use to be successful. Sensory processing and integration are foundational to healthy development, function, participation, learning, and psychological well-being.

Our ability to process sensory data does not usually require conscious thought or cognitive effort. It provides emotional stability, our sense of safety, a platform for social interaction, a sense of self, well-being, satisfaction, and/or accomplishment. Sensory processing influences every area of living, including our preferences in diet, exercise, relationships, career, and hobbies.

Written by STAR Institute