Primitive Reflexes and Their Role in Nervous System Development

Primitive reflexes form the foundation of the human nervous system, acting as building blocks for complex motor and cognitive functions. These automatic, involuntary movements present at birth gradually integrate as the child matures. Controlled by cranial nerves in the brainstem, these reflexes establish a balance between the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems, supporting motor movement, decision-making, and emotional regulation. Cranial nerves reside in the brainstem, a more primitive part of the brain, and are resource-intensive, demanding oxygen, glucose, and yin. When reactive, they block vagal nerve signals, leaving the body in a heightened state of arousal that flood the brain with stress hormones along the HPA axis.

The Role of Primitive Reflexes - Character and Structure

The development of the ANS, including proper vagal tone and a healthy fight/flight/freeze response, is dependent on primitive reflexes that present in the earliest life stages. Primitive reflexes are innate, instinctual, and involuntary movements that initially offer protective movements to sensory stimuli (Pryor). More simply, they are life-saving movements to protect us from harmful sensations. The withdrawal from a hot object wasn't learned—it is a reflex.

Integrating Movement and Emotional Health- Developing the Limbic System

Primitive reflexes evolve into postural reflexes, shaping the myofascial patterns as children grow. The cranial nerves, originating in the more primitive regions of the cervical spine and brainstem, regulate these reflexes. They play a critical role in early development by directing movement patterns that support higher-order functions like walking, running, and fine motor function in the fingers. The cranial nerves integrate into the central nervous system, regulate the developing middle jiao, and coordinate the body's fight-or-flight response. These reflexes also contribute to the development of the limbic system, the central hub of our emotional brain. Infants often experience movements and external stimuli as life-threatening. Each developmental milestone, such as achieving head control, or sitting involves exploring movement, biochemical self-regulation, and establishing new vagal pathways to ensure a parasympathetically neutral environment.

The Impact on Children's Development: Socialization and Sensory Overload

Post-pandemic, many school teachers reported that children appeared stunted in their development, lacking proper socialization. Socialization is a higher-order function of the autonomic nervous system, dealing with primitive reactions related to social engagement. The trauma of not attending school during formative years was significant, but the greater trauma was the sensory overload from excessive screen time before their brains were ready.[1] As I mentioned, the brain will begin to ignore and then diminish afferent sensory pathways in an attempt to reduce sensory input. A developing child has not finished their limbic or emotional regulation, which is part of the educational process. In an attempt to reduce their own overwhelm, children will first resist and then refuse subjects that overwhelm their autonomic nervous system (ANS). While it looks like defiant behavior, many times it is self-preservation.

The Dai Mai and the Eight Extraordinary Vessels: Neurological Focus

 The Dai Mai, or Girdle Vessel, is one of the Eight Extraordinary Vessels in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). These vessels are considered the foundational pathways in the body’s energetic system, often referred to as the Channels of First Ancestry or Primary Ancestry. The Eight Extraordinary Vessels, including the Dai Mai, are believed to carry the inherited Qi and Jing (essence) from one's ancestors, forming the deep, constitutional layers of the body's energy system.

The Chong Mai: Nerve and Myofascial Integration

 Integrating Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with neuroscience and medical chemistry presents the challenge of reconceptualizing how classical descriptions represent reactions in the nervous system. This requires both a qualitative understanding of the nervous system's portrayal in ancient texts and a quantitative, reproducible, and objective method to ensure effective treatment, forming a comprehensive approach to contemporary clinical practice.

Chong Mai (Nerve Focused)

 Chong Mai (Nerve Focused)

1. Branch 1: Origin and Lower Abdomen

Chong Mai Internal Branches in Anatomical Terms (Myofascial Focus)

Primary Origin and Lower Abdomen: