Archetype
The MNRI® Archetype Movement Program focuses on foundational movement patterns that serve as the building blocks for reflex integration, motor skills, and overall functional development. These archetypal movements -head turning, crawling, and spinal movements—are among the first motor actions to emerge and play a critical role in forming the basis for physical, emotional, and cognitive growth.
Program Goals
Strengthen and integrate core archetype movements to support healthy brain-body development.
Promote flexibility, balance, and coordination across the body’s upper/lower, left/right, and front/back axes.
Techniques Used
Guided movement exercises to support the natural progression of archetype patterns.
Gentle, hands-on facilitation to encourage proper movement alignment and activation.
Benefits Observed
Improved posture, core strength, and balance.
Enhanced coordination and gross motor skills.
Strengthened brain-body connection, supporting learning, focus, and emotional regulation.
The Eight Archetype Movements
These movements form the basis for more complex motor reflexes:
Core-Limbs Flexion-Extension (Six-Ended Star): Full-body extension and flexion.
Horizontal Spine Rotation: Rotational movements connecting the mouth and spine.
Vertical Spine Compression: Trunk extension for vertical stability.
Lateral Spine Flexion-Extension: Side-to-side leaning for balance.
Homologues Movements: Bilateral (same-side) activities using both arms or legs.
Homolateral Movements: One-sided, same-limb movements for coordination.
Cross-Lateral Movements: Opposite-limb movements that support coordination and crossing midline.
Intentional Movements: Conscious, goal-directed actions that support purposeful motor control.
Why Archetype Movements Matter
Archetype movements are critical for early development because they help shape core neurological connections related to self-awareness, inner control, and spontaneous learning. Children may face challenges in posture, motor control, and cognitive abilities when these foundational movements remain dormant or underdeveloped. By reactivating these movements, the Archetype Program strengthens the body’s ability to perform more complex reflex patterns, which supports improved focus, memory, problem-solving, and emotional stability.
Integration with Other MNRI® Programs
The Archetype Movement Program provides the groundwork for integrating more advanced reflex patterns. Ensuring these fundamental movements are active enhances the effectiveness of other MNRI® protocols, making it a core therapy component for holistic development.