what do the lateral eye movements of walking and emdr therapy have in common

The lateral eye movements involved in walking and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy share significant similarities in their effects on emotional processing and brain activity.

1. Lateral Eye Movements: Both walking (specifically, self-generated movement) and EMDR involve side-to-side eye movements. In walking, these movements are natural reflexes that occur as part of spatial navigation. In EMDR, clients are instructed to move their eyes laterally while recalling distressing memories, ostensibly to aid in emotional processing.

2. Impact on the Amygdala: Research has shown that lateralized eye movements can suppress the activity of the amygdala, the brain region associated with fear and stress. This suppression helps individuals to dissociate from traumatic memories, allowing them to recall these experiences without the same level of emotional distress 1.

3. Mechanisms of Movement and Emotion: The lateral eye movements used in EMDR were inspired by observations from walking—when individuals physically move through space, they naturally engage in these eye movements. This connection suggests that both activities activate similar neural pathways and mechanisms related to emotional regulation and stress response 1 2.

4. Therapeutic Outcomes: Studies indicate that these eye movements, whether in the context of EMDR or during physical activities like walking or running, can significantly contribute to emotional well-being by enhancing mood and reducing stress responses. They can facilitate a sense of calm and help individuals process their emotions more effectively 2.

In summary, lateral eye movements in both walking and EMDR facilitate emotional processing and stress reduction, reinforcing the interconnectedness of physical movement and mental health.