| Our brain is very flexible. Reacting to new information, the brain can construct new patterns and make new combinations between nerve cells and neurotransmitters (chemical substances which transmit information between nerve cells). More significantly, our brain is so malleable that it changes constantly and adapts its wiring in accordance with new thoughts and experiences.
As a result of this learning process, the functioning of separate neurons changes, enabling easier transmission of electrical stimuli. This ability to change the wiring of the brain, to construct new neural connections has been shown in experiments by Dr. Avi Karni and Leslie Ungerleider of the National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD (Sept. 14, 1995). In this experiment subjects had to perform a simple motor task. The cerebral processing of the task was observed using a Magnetic Resonance Imaging scan (A MRI produces high quality pictures of the human brain and shows which part of the brain is involved during a specific task). After this test the subjects performed this same task every day for 4 hours. Over time they were able to perform this task with greater speed and accuracy.
After 4 weeks an additional MRI scan was done which showed that the area of the brain involved in performing this task now involved a larger area of the brain. This showed that performing the exercises regularly and repetitively had resulted in new nerve cells being activated and that the originally neural connections involved in the performance of this task had changed.
The exercises prescribed by the BSM-de Jong method have the same effect.
In addition to the flexibility of the brain, BSM-de Jong also takes into account the proper development of the nervous system as a whole. Typical development of the nervous system begins before birth and continues throughout life. A development for which nutrition, touch, movement, guided movement and unobstructed nerve transmission are prerequisites. However, a number of different circumstances can compromise these prerequisites causing a delay that can be severe but may also appear minor.
Considering individual delaying factors a BSM-de Jong therapist may also give dietary advice and if necessary may recommend osteopathic treatment to resolve partial obstruction of nerve transmission. Close cooperation between the osteopath and the BSM-de Jong therapist is a prerequisite since, after resolving the obstruction, exercises will be necessary to train or retrain any weak or weakened function.
When treated with BSM-de Jong we see improvement in the quality of the central nervous system resulting in an improved learning potential. In the case of behavioral issues we see normalization. Hence, the individual will be able to enhance the use of his or her intellectual capacities. | |
