We're working hard to stimulate M's right side of the brain. I wanted to look again at what each hemisphere of the brain controls/produces and found this chart:
Reading this... I think I am more left brained but I am convinced I need to stimulate both sides :).
Today was our 2nd day implementing the home portion of Brain Balance. The home portion for Mirielle, which is to target her right brain and particular struggles, includes:
1.Diaphragmatic Breathing. One exercise I teach my voice students is the "4-7-8". Breathe in thru your nose for 4 seconds, hold for 7 then blow out (thru your mouth) for 8 seconds. Make sure your ribs are expanding when you take in your breath :). Sooooo good for the body, soul and mind!
2.Eye Exercises. She does wide eye stretches- Near-Far Focusing, Slow Eye Movements and Eye Alignment Exercises. Each exercise is done for 1 minute- at least 3x a day.
3.Core Exercises. Push-ups/9 total 2x a day/increasing amount as she's able
Sit-ups/12 total-2x a day/increasing amount as she's able.
4. Primitive Reflexes. An example of a primitive reflex is when you put your finger in a baby's hand- it always closes. Primitive reflexes should disappear during the first year of life. Miri has 3 still active. These exercises will help them disappear which will enable appropriate development of her brain. She does a grasp exercise and Independent Thumb Movement exercise (Palmar Reflex), a floor exercise called Superman :) (Landau Reflex) and a chair exercise called the Star Fish (Moro Reflex). Each exercise done 2-3x a day.
5. Listening. Miri listens to a CD in her left ear only -for 10-15 min./3x a day that specifically stimulates the right side of the brain.
Her lab work will be done soon to check for food sensitivities which will most likely change her diet. We have also limited her computer/TV time to a total of 1 1/2 hours a day per their instructions.
I will post as I begin to observe any changes in Miri! We so appreciate your prayers!
Here's a little video of artist Zac Brown promoting the Brain Balance at one of his concerts!
Earlier this year I attended a seminar led by a Dr. Robert Melillo. It was there that I learned about brain integration therapy. Here's a little interview that gives an overview of what the Brain Balance Centers offer.
Today Miri had her first of 36 therapy sessions that will occur over the next 12 weeks. We will also be responsible to do diaphragmatic, listening, physical and eye exercises daily (at home) for the next 12 weeks. We will be getting lab work done to check for food sensitivities, which in turn could drastically change Miri's diet. She will be limited to 1 1/2 hours (total) of computer or TV watching. Are you all praying for us yet? :) Tomorrow we begin the home portion and I will be required to document any changes in her behavior or function. We're praying this will greatly serve our girlie!
I'll do my best to keep everyone updated and again we so appreciate your prayers for our sweet girl!
