Hi, I'm Katie. Welcome back to Inclusion 101!
Today, we're diving into 4 of our senses and how sensory needs may present in our day-to-day life. Let's get started!

If you haven't already, go back and check out my previous blog listing 'The 8 senses'.

Tackling the Tactile System
Our tactile system, or the way we touch and feel things, can be heavily influenced by anxiety and how overwhelmed our nervous system is.
This explains why one day you can comfortably wear a T-shirt and the next day the tags drive you crazy!
Hands up if someone in your house goes through this!

Often, the more overwhelmed we feel, the bigger the small things feel. Our sensory system focuses on the things we can control, such as tags, seams or how a fabric might feel.

Personally, I always keep a big, soft hoodie on hand to stay comfortable and warm!

How does your tactile system impact your daily life?
Do you have to be mindful of what you wear or places you go?

The Sense of Balance
Our sense of balance, or vestibular system, is all about our orientation in space. Think of it as your personal gyroscope, built to track your head movement and help you stay balanced.

Neurodivergent people, especially ADHDers often have a high vestibular need. They can be seen spinning, and jumping and generally focus better when their head/body is moving. Those needing support with their vestibular system may struggle to sit up straight or stand for long periods due to low muscle tone, as their muscles need additional movement to stay alert/ready.

Motion helps us to focus, feel balanced and 'in the zone'.
Simple fixes are movement breaks, spinning chairs, wobble boards and mini trampolines.

What is Proprioception?
Our body perception, or proprioception, involves understanding our body and how our muscles and joints move, including direction and force/pressure. Proprioception helps our brain keep track of our body parts and how they work together. For example, helping you bring your spoon to your mouth when you eat your breakfast.

If there is a disconnect between your brain and body, you might find it difficult to complete tasks involving body movement/connections, such as catching a ball or drinking from an open cup.
You may also struggle with applying too much or not enough force when completing daily tasks.

I like to use weighted blankets for heavy pressure, which helps my joints and muscles feel like they’re where they belong.

You can also practice yoga, heavy work, climbing, swimming or martial arts, there is so much more you can do!

Internal Sensations
Lastly, we have interoception, which involves our internal sensations. This system helps us understand when we need to eat, drink, or go to the bathroom. Think of it as your personal internal PA.
It’s all about your body receiving and responding to sensory stimuli.

Sometime's your PA is on their game, reminding you to eat, drink and reply to those emails... sometimes ( or for me, most of the time) my PA has forgotten that their meant to be on shift! So I am often left going for hours without listening to my internal signals.

Leading to being hangry, thirsty and probably desperate for the loo! oops...

I use visual and auditory reminders such as reminder apps. online calendars and alarms to help keep track of my bodily needs.

There is such a wide variety of options for those wanting to regulate their sensory system. From those needing more stimuli to those needing less.
The great thing about supporting YOUR sensory needs is you can find the best activities for YOU and your individual preferences.

I hope you found these tips helpful!
For more insights and strategies, stay tuned for the next Inclusion 101 or reach out to book your very own 1-1 sensory assessment.

Don’t forget to leave a comment below with your thoughts or any questions you may have. 😊