Stress Management
for the 'Tism and for All
In this world of "inclusion and understanding" it can still be overwhelming. At work, shopping or even at home. In 2022 around 21.8 percent of poll respondents stated having high levels of life stress. I feel confident that in the 2 years since those statistics are higher now. Everyone, autistic or not, deserves free or inexpensive tools to handle these daily negative emotions.
Now it is a fact that each individual is unique but hopefully some of my thoroughly tested hacks will help set you towards the path of peace.
Sour Flavours
Sucking on a sour candy, like Sour Patch Kids, activates your parasympathetic nervous system by generated saliva in your mouth. What is the parasympathetic nervous system? It is the part of your system that decreases your respiration and heart rate, particularly helpful after a stressful situation. Bonus fact it also will increase your digestion.
Sensory Tools
Sensory stimulation can help achieve calmness and focus when confronted with overwhelming experiences. Even just having these objects near can promote security and relaxation by giving you a tool for control.
Fidget toys, essential oil pendants, music, textured jewellery or clothing are just a few ways to have easy access to the stimulation that works for you in your day to day.
Breathwork or Breathing Techniques
It should come as no surprise that oxygen helps. When dealing with stress and anxiety your breath becomes fast, your oxygen gets limited entering your bloodstream. This can cause your body to believe it is in a state of fight or flight. Feels awful. Thankful using a breathing technique you can tell your body that everything will be alright and begin to calm.
4-7-8
Breathe in for four beats.
Hold for seven beats.
Exhale for eight beats.
Continue until you feel yourself calm and relaxed.
Breath Focus
Eyes Closed.
Take a few deep breaths.
Breathe in. Focus on being filled with air.
Breathe out. Imagine all your stress and anxiety flowing out.
Breathe in. Say in your mind a soothing word or phrase. Example "Breathing in, I calm my body."
Breathe out. Say in your mind the other half of the mantra of your choice. Example "Breathing out, I smile"
Continue until you feel yourself calm and relaxed.
With just these three beginning tips you can survive anything the world outside throws at you. Experiment and find what works best for you so the world can watch you shine.
