The 8 senses

Beyond the familiar five senses, there are three internal senses — vestibular, proprioception and interoception — that shape how we experience the world.

3 min read

Last updated June 2026

The 8 senses

Most people know the five outward senses, but there are also three powerful internal senses that influence regulation, behaviour and daily life.

Sight
Sound
Smell
Taste
Touch
Vestibular — balance and movement
Proprioception — body awareness (where your body is and how much force to use)
Interoception — awareness of internal body signals (hunger, thirst, toileting, pain, emotion)

Understanding all eight senses helps us support children and adults more effectively. Difficulties in any one of them can affect mood, learning, sleep, eating and relationships.

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