The Peripersonal Space and its Relevance

Background
The concept of peripersonal space, an area of space immediately surrounding us, is not just a physical boundary but a dynamic interface through which we interact with our environment. This space is neurologically represented and actively mapped by the brain, allowing us to navigate our surroundings, perform tasks, and communicate with others effectively. The understanding of peripersonal space has profound implications for manual therapy, particularly in innovative approaches like The Reaset Approach, developed by Tom Meyers.

Introduction
In manual therapy, the traditional focus has been on addressing physical ailments through direct manipulation of the body's structures. However, The Reaset Approach introduces a paradigm shift, emphasising not just the physical but also the neurological and psychological aspects of healing. The concept of peripersonal space becomes relevant here as it extends the domain of therapy beyond the tangible, into the realm of the patient's sensory and spatial perception.

Content
The Neuroscience of Peripersonal Space: Research in neuroscience reveals that peripersonal space is monitored by a network of brain areas that process information about objects close to the body. This network is involved in integrating sensory inputs with motor actions, highlighting its significance in manual therapy, where touch and movement are central elements.

Peripersonal Space in The Reaset Approach: The Reaset Approach, with its holistic perspective on healing, recognises the importance of peripersonal space in therapy. By recognizing and respecting this space The Reaset Approach practitioner creates a feeling of safety and trust  which is crucial when the objective is lifting the autonomic lesion and creating autonomic balance. By acknowledging this space and effectively tuning into it a practitioner facilitates the necessary  conditions for a deeper level of healing that transcends physical manipulation.

Implications for Manual Therapy: Understanding and respecting the patient's peripersonal space can lead to improved therapeutic outcomes. It allows therapists to be more attuned to the subtle cues that patients emit, enabling a more nuanced and effective treatment strategy. Moreover, this awareness can enhance the patient's sense of safety and comfort, crucial elements in the healing process.

Conclusion
The Reaset Approach is comprehensive therapeutic methodology, developed in response to the evolving nature of patients' health challenges, and a hands-on treatment modality with a focus on reasetting autonomic balance before addressing their symptoms. By its integration of  the neurological and psychological aspects of peripersonal space into treatment The Reaset Approach stands truly takes manual therapy into the 21st century.

As manual therapists, the challenge and opportunity lie in exploring how this understanding of peripersonal space can be incorporated into daily practice. How would you use this information into your practice today? This question invites reflection and experimentation, encouraging therapists to broaden their therapeutic horizons and enhance the well-being of their patients through a deeper understanding of the human body and mind.

More information:
di Pellegrino, G., & Làdavas, E. (2015). Peripersonal space in the brain. Neuropsychologia, 66, 126–133. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2014.11.011
Rabellino, D., Frewen, P. A., McKinnon, M. C., & Lanius, R. A. (2020). Peripersonal Space and Bodily Self-Consciousness: Implications for Psychological Trauma-Related Disorders. Frontiers in neuroscience, 14, 586605. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2020.586605