What is the sixth sense known as proprioception?

When we think about our senses, we usually recall the familiar list of sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste, right? But there is an additional sense, sometimes called “the sixth sense,” and it is not related to a mystical ability but rather to a physical one – proprioception.

This is an internal and hidden sense that plays a role in every movement we make in our daily lives, whether we are aware of it or not. For sensory artists, this ability is an integral part of their performance and success. If you want to understand its significance and how it integrates into the art of sensory performance, keep reading.

What is proprioception?

The term describes the body’s ability to sense itself in space. It refers to a mechanism that allows us to know the position of our body parts without looking at them. For example, when you reach out for a key on the table, you don’t need to look at your hand to know its exact position. This sense arises from the activity of receptors located in the muscles, tendons, and joints, which transmit information about position, tension, and movement directly to the brain.

Proprioception is essentially a type of internal navigation system that guides our body at every moment, integrating sensory information from both the external and internal environment. This sense enables us to perform complex movements like running, climbing, and even delicate actions such as writing. Some individuals have a highly developed proprioceptive sense, to the point where they can actively make use of it.

How does proprioception manifest in the art of sensory performance?

Sensory artists heavily rely on their proprioception. The art of sensory performance demands high technical skills, complete physical control, concentration, and coordination between the mind and body. Take, for example, sensory artists who incorporate cards, coins, or other elements into their performances – they depend on proprioception to execute various tricks while concealing the mechanisms behind them.

Beyond performances, proprioception is also significant in the daily lives of sensory artists. Ultimately, daily practice and repeated exercises are the foundation for enhancing this ability for their shows. It can be trained in various ways – from meditation exercises to memory games and even ordinary walking down the street, with an awareness of objects and the body’s movement within the broader space.

How does it affect the audience during a performance?

When we watch a sensory artist in action, there’s a sense of magic that’s hard to put into words. Part of this magic stems from the artist’s ability to use their proprioception so precisely that they can conceal the process and focus solely on the result.

Proprioception also plays a role in the artist’s interaction with the audience. Many artists are adept at noticing and responding to subtle movements from spectators – a smile, a hand gesture, or a slight expression. These are details that someone without a highly developed sense might overlook. By doing so, they enhance the personal connection, creating a more tailored and interactive performance.

It’s also worth noting that proprioception works in harmony with our other senses. For example, sight and hearing provide external information that complements the internal sense. For sensory artists, the ability to seamlessly integrate these senses is what makes the difference between a good performance and a mesmerizing show.

How can proprioception be improved?

Sensory artists and anyone interested in developing this ability can use simple exercises, such as standing on one leg with eyes closed, which improves balance and body awareness. Activities like various games, yoga, Pilates, and overall heightened awareness of the body, the surrounding space, movement, and people can also enhance this sense.

If you wish to improve your proprioception, know that it is possible – with hard work and persistence, you can experience your abilities in ways you never knew before.