There’s a little muscle
in the middle ear
(the stapedius muscle)
that contracts
in the presence of
loud noises,
dampening
the
sound.
I sense the contraction
as my hearing
‘closing down,’
particularly when I’m
exposed to
sounds I can’t bear
(loud talkers).
Thank you, stapedius.
You’re protecting more
than my inner ear.
This article was written by Kimmy Lane - Australian occupational therapist with 20 years’ experience and the founder of Be You OT. Kimmy provides calm, neuro-affirming online therapy for late-identified autistic women and thoughtful clinical supervision for occupational therapists. She is a certified EFT practitioner and holds a life-coaching certification. Kimmy’s practice is evidence-informed, values-led, compassionate and designed to be gentle on the nervous system.
