What is Sensory Wellbeing?
Sensory well-being refers to the state of feeling comfortable and balanced in relation to one's sensory environment. It encompasses an individual's ability to process, regulate, and respond to sensory stimuli in a way that promotes a sense of harmony and well-being. Sensory well-being is important for everyone, but it's particularly crucial for individuals with sensory processing difficulties, such as those with autism or ADHD. Achieving sensory well-being often involves managing and mitigating sensory triggers, creating an environment that is supportive and soothing, and engaging in sensory-based self-care strategies.
Some elements of sensory well-being include:
Our New Book (Out 2024) Becoming a Sensory Aware School- A Toolkit to develop a whole school approach for Sensory Wellbeing can help your staff and school with this. Contact me to find out more.
Some elements of sensory well-being include:
- Understanding personal sensory needs: Each person has unique sensory preferences, tolerances, and triggers. Identifying and understanding one's own sensory needs is the first step toward achieving sensory well-being.
- Sensory-friendly environments: Creating spaces that minimize sensory overload, such as using dim lighting, soft textures, and reducing background noise, can help promote sensory well-being.
- Sensory diet: Engaging in sensory activities that help regulate the nervous system, such as deep pressure, swinging, or fidgeting, can improve sensory well-being. A "sensory diet" is a personalized plan that incorporates these activities throughout the day.
- Self-regulation strategies: Learning to recognize when sensory overload is occurring and utilizing coping strategies, like deep breathing exercises, mindfulness techniques, or taking a break from the sensory environment, can help maintain sensory well-being.
- Communication and support: Open communication with friends, family, and colleagues about one's sensory needs can help foster understanding and create a more accommodating environment.
- Professional guidance: Occupational therapists or other healthcare professionals specializing in sensory processing can provide guidance and support in developing strategies to achieve sensory well-being.
Our New Book (Out 2024) Becoming a Sensory Aware School- A Toolkit to develop a whole school approach for Sensory Wellbeing can help your staff and school with this. Contact me to find out more.