“Any neural network that is activated in a repetitive way will change. Therefore, if we want to provide reorganising, patterned, repetitive input to reach the dysregulated or poorly organised neural networks involved in the stress response, we can provide patterned repetitive rhythmic somatosensory activity…The rhythm of these experiences matter. The brainstem and diencephalon contain several powerful associations to rhythmic somatosensory activity created in utero and reinforced in early in life…One of the most powerful sets of associations created in utero is the association between patterned repetitive rhythmic activity from maternal heart rate and all the neural patterns of activity associated with not being hungry, not been thirsty, and feeling ‘safe’. In other words, patterned, repetitive and rhythmic somatosensory activity becomes an evocative cue that elicits a sensation of safety. Rhythm is regulating….”

Bruce Perry, MD, PhD, Senior Fellow of The Child Trauma Academy (2012) DOI:10.1017/aft.2012.26