http://www.connectmovementtherapy.com.au/

Connect Movement Therapy, Gold Coast (2025)

26/09/2025

Histamine intolerance often points to a bigger systems issue - here’s what families should know.

Histamine is more than just a “food reaction.”
It’s a chemical messenger that affects your gut, hormones, immune system, and even the brain. When your body can’t break it down properly, histamine builds up, and that’s when symptoms appear.

Foods that often trigger symptoms: wine, cheese, tomatoes, chocolate, strawberries, avocado, and even leftovers that have sat in the fridge.

However, here’s the critical part — histamine sensitivity rarely exists in isolation. It’s often connected with:
🌱 Gut health issues (SIBO, leaky gut, dysbiosis)
🧬 Genetic factors (MTHFR, DAO enzyme)
⚖️ Hormone imbalances (oestrogen, thyroid, adrenal stress)
🛡️ Immune triggers (allergies, autoimmune overlap)
🧠 Nervous system stress (migraines, anxiety, poor sleep)

At CMT we don’t diagnose histamine intolerance, but we do help families identify patterns, support nervous system regulation, and connect with the right professionals for more in-depth answers.

04/07/2025

Autism is often seen as a neurological disorder, but did you know it’s also closely linked to mitochondrial health? Mitochondria are the powerhouses of our cells, and when they’re not functioning properly, it can affect how the brain develops and communicates.

At Connect Movement Therapy, we recognise that autism isn’t either neurological or mitochondrial - it’s both.

By supporting both brain function and energy production through light exposure, movement therapy, and environmental changes, we help children address the root causes from multiple angles. Curious about how these two systems are connected? We’re here to guide you. Reach out to our team via the website or DM.

Lou Boettcher
Integrating Body and Brain
https://connectmovementtherapy.com.au
______________________________
🛋️ In Room Appointments
🖥️ Virtual calls Available
______________________________

29/06/2025

For neurodivergent children, movement isn’t just about physical fitness; it’s a powerful way to regulate the brain and support focus, behaviour, and emotional wellbeing.

When your child moves, it activates the vestibular system (balance and spatial awareness), the proprioceptive system(body awareness), and the cerebellum (coordination and motor control), all of which play critical roles in neurological function.

Why Movement Breaks Matter:
✔ Calms the Nervous System: Heavy work like pushing, pulling, or jumping can reduce anxiety and improve focus.
✔ Improves Focus: Rhythmic, repetitive movements like rocking, spinning, or bouncing help regulate overstimulation.
✔ Supports Emotional Regulation: Movement reduces cortisol (the stress hormone) and triggers dopamine release, helping kids reset emotionally.

Practical Ideas for Movement Breaks:
✔ Animal Walks – Crawling, bear walks, or crab walks engage the core and improve body awareness.
✔ Pillow Pushing or Wall Pushes – Great for releasing built-up tension.
✔ Mini Trampoline Jumps – Stimulates the vestibular system, helping kids re-centre.

Example: If your child struggles to sit still at the dinner table, try a quick, 5-minute animal walk or wall push before meals. This can help them transition from play mode to sit-and-focus mode more smoothly.

At CMT, we believe in the power of movement as a tool for brain regulation and long-term development. Small, consistent efforts can make a big difference.

Have you tried movement breaks in your daily routine? What’s worked for your family?

Lou Boettcher
Integrating Body and Brain
https://connectmovementtherapy.com.au
______________________________
🛋️ In Room Appointments
🖥️ Virtual calls Available
______________________________

L I N K I N B I O

26/06/2025

Supporting Your Child’s Body Clock (and Why It Matters) Your child’s body runs on an internal clock - their circadian rhythm - and when it’s working well, it supports better sleep, focus, mood, and energy levels. But when that rhythm is disrupted, you might notice signs like:

✔ Trouble falling or staying asleep
✔ Fatigue during the day
✔ Mood swings or meltdowns
✔ Difficulty concentrating

Many of the neurodivergent kids we see at CMT have a disrupted body clock which is often due to irregular light exposure, unpredictable routines, or eating at inconsistent times.

But here’s the good news: small, simple changes can help restore balance.

✔ Morning sunlight helps set the body’s natural rhythm
✔ Regular mealtimes support digestion and energy
✔ Reducing screen time before bed promotes deeper sleep

At Connect Movement Therapy, we look at the whole picture, not just symptoms, but what’s underneath. That includes supporting your child’s nervous system through structure, rhythm, and practical tools that make daily life feel more predictable and regulated.

Not sure if your child’s sleep or energy struggles are rhythm related? Reach out, we’re here to help.

Lou Boettcher
Integrating Body and Brain
https://connectmovementtherapy.com.au
______________________________
🛋️ In Room Appointments
🖥️ Virtual calls Available
______________________________

22/06/2025

Don't Miss Out on Connect Movement Therapy's Latest Updates. We are constantly working on new ways to support children and families, and we have some exciting things in the works. We want to make sure you're in the know! 📣

By signing up for our newsletter, you'll receive the following:

✅ Early access to new resources and programs
✅ Information about upcoming availability, products and services
✅ Helpful tips and strategies

We're passionate about helping children achieve their goals, and we believe that by keeping parents informed and supported, we can make a real difference in their lives. 💪

Stay connected with Connect Movement Therapy and head to our website now to sign up for our newsletter.

Lou Boettcher
Integrating Body and Brain
https://connectmovementtherapy.com.au

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🛋️ In Room Appointments
🖥️ Virtual calls Available
______________________________

19/06/2025

What your child eats can have a profound impact on their focus, mood, and learning. Nutrient-dense foods provide the building blocks for healthy brain function, emotional regulation, and physical resilience.

✔ Whole, unprocessed foods reduce inflammation and support gut health
✔ Omega-3 fatty acids (like those in wild fish and flaxseeds) support brain function
✔ Consistent, balanced nutrition helps stabilise blood sugar and reduce meltdowns

At CMT, we take a holistic approach to therapy, addressing not just the brain, but the whole child.

Lou Boettcher
Integrating Body and Brain
https://connectmovementtherapy.com.au
______________________________
🛋️ In Room Appointments
🖥️ Virtual calls Available
______________________________

15/06/2025

Building strong communication with your neurodivergent child is not always easy, but small shifts in how we listen can make a big difference.

Active listening is more than just hearing. It means being fully present. That might look like putting down your phone, making eye contact, and tuning in to your child’s words, body language, and tone without stepping in to fix the situation straight away.

Example: Your child is playing happily, then suddenly becomes loud and physically overexcited. Rather than saying, “Calm down” or “Lower your voice,” which often does not land in that moment, try kneeling to their level, making gentle eye contact and saying,
“I can see you are really excited. Let’s take a few deep breaths together.”

Here are a few more things that can help:

✔ Validate their feelings: You do not need to agree in order to acknowledge. Try,
“I can tell this feels like a lot right now. That is okay. We will work through it together.”

✔ Use open-ended questions: Instead of “Did you have a good day?” ask, “What was the best part of your day?”

✔ Be patient: Give your child time to find their words. It shows that what they say matters.

✔ Model respectful communication: The way you speak to others teaches your child how to communicate too.

What to avoid:
✖ Interrupting or rushing their responses
✖ Minimising their feelings (such as “It is not a big deal”)
✖ Labelling (like “You are being dramatic”)
✖ Bombarding them with questions
✖ Ignoring nonverbal cues, like body tension or withdrawal

If your child becomes overstimulated, it is natural to feel overwhelmed too. But staying calm and steady helps them feel safe.

Try saying,
“This feels like too much right now. Let’s step outside and take a quiet minute together.”

Communication is a skill you can build together. Every day gives you another opportunity to connect and understand each other more.

Lou Boettcher
Integrating Body and Brain
https://connectmovementtherapy.com.au
______________________________
🛋️ In Room Appointments
🖥️ Virtual calls Available
______________________________

12/06/2025

Have you ever noticed your child leaning on the table, slumping in their chair, or struggling to sit upright for more than a few minutes? This isn’t just about strength, it’s about postural tone, a critical component of neurological development.

Why Postural Tone Matters:

✔ Supports Focus and Attention: If your child’s body is constantly working to stay upright, it’s harder for their brain to focus on learning.
✔ Improves Motor Skills: Strong postural tone supports balance, coordination, and physical confidence.
✔ Reduces Fatigue: Efficient postural control means less energy spent just sitting still, leaving more brain power for thinking and problem-solving.

Signs Your Child Might Have Low Postural Tone:

✔ Slouching or leaning while seated
✔ Frequent fidgeting or shifting position
✔ Difficulty sitting still without support
✔ Tires quickly during physical activities
✔ Poor hand-eye coordination or clumsiness
Simple Ways to Build Postural Tone:
✔ Core-Engaging Activities: Crawling, animal walks, and obstacle courses
✔ Balance Play: Standing on one foot, balancing on a beam, or walking on uneven surfaces
✔ Movement Breaks: Short bursts of jumping, rolling, or wheelbarrow walking throughout the day

At CMT, we understand that postural tone is more than just “sitting up straight” - it’s a reflection of brain function and neurological development. By supporting the body, we support the brain.

Have you noticed these signs in your child? What strategies have helped them build strength and stability? Share your experience below.

Lou Boettcher
Integrating Body and Brain
https://connectmovementtherapy.com.au
______________________________
🛋️ In Room Appointments
🖥️ Virtual calls Available
______________________________

L I N K I N B I O

11/06/2025

For neurodivergent children, excessive screen time can have a direct impact on brain function, behaviour, and emotional regulation. Research shows that extended device use can overstimulate the brain’s dopamine pathways, reinforcing a cycle of dependency and potentially increasing anxiety, impulsivity, and emotional outbursts.

To help manage screen time and reduce family conflicts, consider these practical strategies:

✔ Set Clear Limits: Use parental controls (like Apple’s Screen Time settings) to set daily limits on apps, games, and video content. This helps children understand that once their time is up, it’s up until tomorrow, reducing power struggles.
✔ Encourage Real-Life Play: Outdoor activities, sensory games, and creative hobbies engage different parts of the brain, supporting attention, coordination, and emotional regulation.
✔ Create Tech-Free Zones: Keep bedrooms, meal areas, and family spaces screen-free to promote meaningful connection and reduce overstimulation.

Understanding the Science: Digital devices stimulate dopamine release, the same chemical involved in pleasure and reward. For children with ADHD, autism, or sensory processing challenges, this can create a powerful and potentially addictive feedback loop, making it harder for them to disengage.

Remember, balance is key. Helping your child build a healthier relationship with technology can improve focus, reduce meltdowns, and create a calmer home environment.

Do you use parental controls in your home, or have you found other strategies that work? Share your tips below.

Lou Boettcher
Integrating Body and Brain
https://connectmovementtherapy.com.au
______________________________
🛋️ In Room Appointments
🖥️ Virtual calls Available
______________________________

05/06/2025

A quick NDIS update! We will keep you updated as changes occur.

Lou Boettcher
Integrating Body and Brain
https://connectmovementtherapy.com.au
______________________________
🛋️ In Room Appointments
🖥️ Virtual calls Available
______________________________

04/06/2025

Looking for practical, science-backed advice on supporting your child’s development? Lou has curated a list of recommended reads, covering topics from brain balance to sensory integration and parenting strategies.

These resources can be a valuable guide as you support your child’s growth and well-being. Check out our curated list on the website and discover new favourites.

Have a book you love? Drop it in the comments and share why it’s been helpful for your family.

Lou Boettcher
Integrating Body and Brain
https://connectmovementtherapy.com.au
______________________________
🛋️ In Room Appointments
🖥️ Virtual calls Available
______________________________

01/06/2025

Did you know that the gut produces around 95% of the body’s serotonin, a key neurotransmitter involved in mood, sleep, and focus? This means a healthy gut isn’t just about digestion, it directly impacts your child’s emotional regulation, behaviour, and overall brain function.

If your child struggles with:

✔ Food sensitivities or frequent allergic reactions
✔ Behavioural changes after eating certain foods
✔ Frequent loose stools, constipation, or reflux
✔ Picky eating or sensory aversions to certain textures
✔ Chronic sinus or ear infections
✔ Poor immunity or frequent illnesses

…it could be linked to their gut health. Diet plays a crucial role in this connection.

For example:

✔ Refined sugar can disrupt the gut microbiome, causing rapid energy spikes and emotional crashes.
✔ Gluten may trigger inflammation in sensitive individuals, potentially affecting mood and focus.
✔ Vitamin C has been shown to lower histamine levels in the body, supporting immune function and reducing inflammation (Journal of the American College of Nutrition, 2018). However, it’s best to introduce this gradually, as some kids may be more sensitive to higher doses.
✔ Magnesium is essential for calming the nervous system and supporting sleep, making it a helpful nutrient for kids who struggle to settle.

At CMT, we take a holistic approach, addressing both the brain and body for lasting change. Small adjustments to diet can have a profound impact on mood, focus, and overall wellbeing.

Have you noticed certain foods affecting your child’s mood or behaviour? Or perhaps you’ve seen positive changes after removing certain triggers? Share your experiences below, we’d love to hear what’s worked for your family.

Lou Boettcher
Integrating Body and Brain
https://connectmovementtherapy.com.au
______________________________
🛋️ In Room Appointments
🖥️ Virtual calls Available
______________________________

Connect Movement Therapy

26/09/2025

04/07/2025

29/06/2025

26/06/2025

22/06/2025

19/06/2025

15/06/2025

12/06/2025

11/06/2025

05/06/2025

04/06/2025

01/06/2025

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