Imagine walking through a pitch-black room without stumbling. Or reaching for a coffee cup while engrossed in a conversation. These effortless actions are guided by proprioception, often referred to as our sixth sense, which allows our body to sense its position in space. It’s automatic, so we rarely notice it, yet it underpins movement, balance, and emotional regulation. But beyond its practical functions, proprioception has profound implications for how we experience and engage with life.

What is Proprioception?

Proprioception is like your body’s internal GPS, constantly telling your brain where you are in space. Through nerve endings in muscles, tendons, and joints, it sends a steady stream of feedback to the nervous system. This sense allows us to move smoothly, adjusting our posture, catching ourselves before we fall, or spinning without stumbling.

As Maria Montessori put it, “The senses, being the explorers of the world, open the way to knowledge.” Proprioception isn’t just about movement. It’s also about awareness, helping us feel grounded in our bodies and present in the moment. This sense bridges the physical and mental, bringing a deeper connection to ourselves and how we engage with the world.

How is it our sixth sense?

Proprioception, often called the body’s “hidden sixth sense,” has long been overlooked in Western thought. Unlike the five senses defined by Aristotle over 2,000 years ago, proprioception only gained recognition in the 19th century, when neuroscientists first identified the sensory role of muscles. As people live longer, the academic interest in spatial awareness and its decline over time is climbing, with dozens of research papers on proprioception published each year. But Eastern thought has recognised a broader spectrum of human perception for centuries. In ancient Hindu philosophy, the five senses are known as the “powers of perception,” complemented by “powers of action” such as locomotion and dexterity. The Katha Upanishad even likens the senses to unruly horses, suggesting that, when controlled, they allow us to become masters of our own minds and bodies. Today, science is beginning to unpack the crucial role of proprioception, without it, simple tasks like walking or reaching for a cup would be impossible.

Why does it matter?

Proprioception plays an overlooked role in how we experience ourselves and interact with the world. It’s not just about movement, it shapes how we process emotions, navigate our environment, and connect with others. It’s that inner awareness that allows us to feel grounded and present. As Carl Jung said, “Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakens.” 

What are the benefits of Proprioception?

• Presence and mindfulness: Proprioception helps bring us back to the present moment and more anchored in the here and now. Jon Kabat-Zinn, known for his work in mindfulness, said, “Mindfulness is the awareness that arises through paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgmentally.” 
• Emotional regulation: A stronger connection between body and mind makes it easier to manage emotions. The more we tune into our body’s signals, the better we can handle stress and emotional reactions.
• Resilience: Proprioception helps build mental and physical resilience. Being aware of our bodies in space makes us more adaptable. Brené Brown’s research on resilience shows that “Resilience is not a trait that you either have or do not have. It is a set of thoughts, behaviours, and actions that anyone can learn.”

Further Reading

• The silent “sixth” sense – Vox
• Tai Chi is a work out for the brain and body – New York Times 
• 5 senses? In fact, architects say there are 7 – The Conversation