Understanding You
Body Awareness &
Sensory Processing
Neurodiverse people usually have differences in perceiving body awareness,
sensory processing and emotional regulation.
Understanding Sensory Experiences
Some sensations and situations may seem minor to others, but they can cause discomfort, stress, or even pain for neurodiverse people. We have eight core senses that constantly collect information from our surroundings, our emotions, and our physical body.
These senses help us stay grounded, secure, and balanced.
The Eight Senses
Sight
light, shapes, movement
Hearing
noise, vibration
Taste
flavour
Smell
Smell
Touch
texture, pressure, temperature
Vestibular
balance
Proprioception
body position in space
Interoceptive
internal body sensation
Sensory Processing Differences
It is common for an autistic person to have sensory processing disorders. There are two defined categories: Hyper-sensitivity and Hypo-sensitivity, but it is common for an autistic person to have mixed sensory perception of hyper and hypo.
Hypo-sensitivity
Actively craves more stimulation. May seek out intense sensory experiences to feel regulated.
Hyper-sensitivity
Overwhelmed by sensory input. May need to reduce or avoid certain sensory experiences.
Noticing Your Triggers
Noticing triggers in the environment, food, routine, occasions, relationships, and hormones can make all the difference. Down regulating your nervous system puts you in a resting state, where things can begin to slow down.
Common Triggers
For a lot of late diagnosed teens and adults, reaching burnout is when discovery begins. Learning how to understand their unique sensitivity and their strengths is a life long journey.
Understanding Challenges
Sensory Overload
When a person becomes overwhelmed by sensory inputs. May appear as difficulty focusing, irritability, anxiety, or withdrawing.
Meltdowns
Severe emotional stress manifesting as uncontrollable crying, shouting, or physical responses when completely overwhelmed.
Internal Meltdowns
Hidden response appearing calm but internally experiencing spiralling thoughts, panic, or extreme despair.
Burnout
Extreme exhaustion from prolonged stress, leading to loss of skills and reduced tolerance. Recovery can take months or years.
Nervous System Regulation
The nervous system is the central system that interprets sensory information. Many neurodiverse people have extremely sensitive nervous systems. Learning how to regulate emotions and the nervous system can help make life more manageable.
Embodied awareness is an especially good place to start—learning how to feel safe and present in your body, and using sensory experiences in a safe, fun and comforting way.
Ways to Help Regulate
Art therapy & music therapy
Sound therapy & colour therapy
Play therapy & aromatherapy
Deep pressure touch
Sensory tactile touch
Snoezelen therapy
Routines & predictability
Autonomy & stability
Creating Stability & Security
Routines, predictability and autonomy create stability and security. Reliable food, clothing, people, and routines promote calmness and comfort—
especially for individuals with nervous system differences.