SEP 20, 2017 7:44 AM PDT

Humans Have More than 5 Senses, Apparently

WRITTEN BY: Xuan Pham

If you close your eyes and put a finger near your forehead, even without skin-to-skin contact, you can sense where your finger is. Some would argue that such sensation is due to the fact that you're in control of your finger, and therefore can sense where on your forehead the finger is pointing. However, some scientists say there's a more complex explanation - one that involves a different sense besides the five usual suspects (sight, smell, taste, touch, and hearing).

Scientists call this unique sense "proprioception" - the ability to perceive the body's position and movements. Proprioception is what allows you to walk without stumbling over your own feet, or position your hand to catch a ball. It's thought that this sense works with sensory receptors in your joints, ligaments, and muscles to make you aware of your body's position and movements.

Watch the video to learn about other senses you didn't even know you had!
About the Author
Doctorate (PhD)
I am a human geneticist, passionate about telling stories to make science more engaging and approachable. Find more of my writing at the Hopkins BioMedical Odyssey blog and at TheGeneTwist.com.
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