Playground
Playing with Perception
Up to 95% of thought activity happens outside of conscious awareness, often filled with silent complaints, negative self-talk, or inner resistance—the desire for things to be different. Such states are normal; however, they cause mental stress and physical tension, resulting in energy loss.
Despite our neurodiverse differences in perception, everybody craves to be pulled into presence, even if not aware of it.
Designing for Connectedness is based on the understanding of the brain’s perception filter to invite awareness out of autopilot into mindfulness and presence.
Glimmer Moments gently interrupt mental noise, and support grounding through j⦾yful awareness.
smART Transitions is a framework grounded in these principles for integrated coherence — by design.
Click to open and learn more:
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11 Million Sensory Impulses “touch” the body through the five senses each second. A massive overload. But what is important? The brain’s perception filter — the Reticular Activating System (RAS) selects and prioritizes up to 50 sensory impulses per second available to awareness.
Pathways for impulses to pass the brain’s filter are:
novelty & surprise
multi-sensory experiences
changes & differences
psychological & physical safety cues
curiosity & engagement
personal relevance & meaning
The understanding of the RAS’s functionality allows to invite perception out of autopilot into mindful and present awareness — by design.
Learn more about Designing for Connectedness: Free GPT course »
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Unlike triggers, which signal danger or distress, Glimmers* are subtle, pleasant cues that transmit safety to the nervous system, ease tension, and restore balance.
Glimmers can be very personal, like a a favorite song, or a meaningful object. Or they are induced by universal stimuli, due to human wiring. A leafy wall décor soothes the nervous system upon entering a space. The scattered light of a sun catcher sparks j⦾y caused by it’s thought-silencing effect. Glimmers:
reduce stress – activate the nervous system’s calming response, easing tension.
support physical health – lowered stress levels contribute to better sleep, and immune function.
improve mental well-being – sustain emotional balance and lower anxiety.
*Deb Dana coined the term Glimmers in context of Polyvagal Theory.
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smART Transitions responds to the human longing for nature, playfulness, and formlessness. To spark J⦾y (=mental states of mindfulness & presence) by design — right where it matters most.