Jan entry continued... MS3

ok so the last pattern we explored was the CONTRALATERAL pattern. Beforehand we were focussing on the homolateral pattern so now we are working towards oppositional. This means we are now finally at the MAMMAL stage in the creature timeline. This is the most complex pattern as we have finally reached the end. As humans we use this CONTRLATERAL pattern all of the time. The most common being swinging the arms when walking changing each foot.

Contralateral is the differentiation between 4 quadrants. This can also be referred to in a mammal such as a CAT. Using their muscles and structure to stay above the ground with just their paws on the floor. As their bellies are off the ground their structure enables a vocal range. This is why mammals can make sounds as their skulls are off the ground.

 The pattern also highlights a connection on the diagonal lines. for example when cats move forward they engage with opposing legs in order to move and balance. This shows a clear connection on the diagonal. therefore this pattern relates to anything locomotive i.e running in humans and most commonly crawling when we are babies. Here is an image of a runner where I have drawn in diagonal lines to show the contralateral pattern.

Therefore this pattern increases the level of muscular support and activates the muscles.

The pattern comes back to mind body integration as it uses left to right integration. This pattern is helpful and is present in therapy in help to help re pattern an adults left and right after an accident.


After learning about this pattern we explored the diagonals of the body with a graphic. The very act of just connecting with my partners touch highlights my limbs which makes me more aware of them. Therefore when we began to move solo with this diagonal awareness I felt each limb was reaching out beyond my limit. I felt extremely long but still controlled. After a while the boundaries of the diagonal lines through my body blurred a little. It became more about being in control with my long limbs which reminded me of the NRP. For me although I do this pattern all of the time in everyday life when I consciously think about it, it becomes more difficult to understand. It does not flow correctly at the moment so the more I consciously think about it the more clearer and comfortable it becomes.

Just a thought as well, when I observe people in this pattern just walking down the road is got me thinking what would it be like if we did not use this pattern unconsciously. For example how difficult would it be to walk without the use of oppositional arms? maybe this should be an experiment I conduct for myself and others to witness.