interoceptive

INTEROCEPTIVE
Interoception refers to the perception of internal bodily sensations, such as hunger, thirst, pain, heartbeat, and breathing. In other words, it is the process of sensing and interpreting physiological signals that originate from inside the body.

Interoceptive information is gathered through sensory receptors located in organs such as the heart, lungs, stomach, and intestines, as well as in the skin, muscles, and joints. This information is transmitted to the brain, where it is integrated with other sensory information and used to regulate bodily functions and maintain homeostasis.
Examples of interoceptive sensations include feeling thirsty, experiencing hunger pangs, sensing a rapid heartbeat during exercise, feeling shortness of breath when anxious, and experiencing aches and pains in muscles or joints.

Interoception plays a crucial role in our ability to perceive and respond to internal bodily states, as well as in our emotional and cognitive processes. It is also increasingly recognized as an important factor in physical and mental health, including conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, and depression.