More Than Just a Walk in the Park

We understand the world through our senses. As Nepal’s only Certifies Ayres Sensory Integration Practitioner, I work with children with neurodevelopmental conditions everyday who also have sensory processing differences. The way some children/people proce

Picture this: it’s early evening and you're taking a walk through the park with your family. The trees sway gently, their green leaves offering a refreshing break from the day's screen time. You hear the cheerful chorus of dogs barking, birds chirping, and children laughing as they run around. The breeze is cool against your skin. Somewhere nearby, the sweet scent of freshly scooped ice cream drifts through the air. A light summer rain begins to fall, pattering softly on your umbrella. Your child skips over a puddle, landing confidently. No one trips, bumps into anyone, or wanders off course. As the walk winds down, you feel a little sweaty—and a little hungry. It’s time to head home. A simple yet perfect way to end the day.

But have you ever stopped to wonder how much your body does—quietly, automatically—to make moments like this possible? We often credit our “five senses” for helping us take in the world around us. But the truth is, there’s more going on beneath the surface.

Wait—Aren’t There Just Five Senses?

Most of us grew up learning about sight, hearing, taste, touch, and smell. And yes, those are important—but modern science and child development experts, especially occupational therapists, recognize that we actually use eight basic sensory systems every day. These lesser-known senses help us move smoothly, stay balanced, feel safe, and stay tuned in to what’s happening inside our bodies.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Sight (Visual): Helps us notice visual information from our surroundings and avoid obstacles.
Hearing (Auditory): Helps us understand sounds, words, and tones.
Smell (Olfactory): Often tied to memory, smell helps us enjoy the world—and avoid danger.
Taste (Gustatory): More than just flavor—taste protects us by detecting things that might be harmful.
Touch (Tactile): Helps us feel textures, temperatures, pressure, and pain.
Proprioception: A fancy word for our body awareness. It tells us where our limbs are even when we’re not looking.
Vestibular: Helps with balance and coordination. It’s what keeps us upright when walking or turning quickly.
Interoception: This is your inner sense—knowing when you’re hungry, thirsty, angry, tired, or need the bathroom. In short, it’s the sense that answers “How do I feel?” question.

These systems work quietly in the background to help us (and our kids) go through the day—whether we’re tying shoelaces, playing tag, reading a book, or cuddling on the couch.

Human beings are sensory beings!

Why It’s Important for Families

For children, especially, these sensory systems play a huge role in development. When everything is in sync, tasks like climbing at the playground, focusing in school, or trying new foods can feel smooth and natural. But when one or more systems are over- or under-sensitive, everyday experiences can feel overwhelming.

Does your child avoid swings or climbing frames? Do they get upset about the feeling of clothing tags or loud noises? Do they constantly crash into furniture, or seem unaware of hunger cues? These could be signs of sensory processing differences.

The good news? You’re not alone—and there’s support available. Occupational therapists often work with children to help them understand and regulate their sensory needs. Through simple activities and playful routines, kids can learn how to feel more comfortable in their bodies and more confident in the world around them.

Sensory Wellness for Everyone

And this isn’t just about kids. Grown-ups have sensory needs too! Maybe you love a hot shower after a long day because it calms your tactile system. Or maybe you feel recharged after a brisk walk because your vestibular and proprioceptive systems are getting the input they crave.

Tuning into your own sensory preferences—and those of your family—can help make daily life feel more balanced and connected. You might try:

Adding a calm-down corner with cozy textures for your child.
Doing family yoga to engage balance and body awareness.
Playing nature sounds at bedtime to soothe the auditory system.
Encouraging outdoor play for natural sensory experiences.

The Takeaway

Our bodies are amazing. Without us even realizing it, they’re constantly working behind the scenes to help us interact with the world. The more we understand about our sensory systems, the more we can support not just our own well-being—but also that of our children.

So the next time you’re out for a walk with your family, take a moment to notice how much your senses are doing. That simple stroll in the park? It’s actually a beautiful, coordinated symphony of your body’s inner wisdom—one that makes life’s little joys possible.