Section B: The Sensory Spectrum - Welcome to a World of Sensation!
You've chosen to embark on a journey through the fascinating and often intense world of sensory experiences. Our senses are our primary way of interacting with and understanding the world around us – and within us. But not everyone experiences sensory input in the same way.
Neurodivergent individuals, including those who are autistic, have ADHD, or experience Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) traits, often have a uniquely wired sensory system. This can mean being highly sensitive to certain sensations, less sensitive to others, or actively seeking out specific kinds of sensory input to feel regulated and comfortable.
What is Sensory Processing?
Sensory processing is how our nervous system receives messages from the senses and turns them into appropriate motor and behavioral responses. For some, this process is seamless. For others, the "volume" might be turned up too high on some senses, too low on others, or the brain might struggle to organize and interpret the information it receives.
In this section, we'll explore:
- The eight sensory systems (yes, there are more than five!).
- Hyper-sensitivities (being over-responsive or easily overwhelmed by sensations).
- Hypo-sensitivities (being under-responsive or needing more intense input to register a sensation).
- Sensory Seeking behaviors (actively looking for certain types of sensory input).
- How these differences can impact daily life, emotions, focus, and social interactions.
- Strategies for creating more sensory-friendly environments and self-regulating.
A Gentle Disclaimer:
This section is for self-understanding and education. While we will discuss traits associated with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), this book is not a diagnostic tool. If you have significant concerns about sensory processing, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional, such as an Occupational Therapist (OT) specializing in sensory integration.
Your First Sensory Exploration:
Think about your general day-to-day experience with the world around you. Which of these statements, if any, feels like a general starting point for describing your sensory world? (It's okay if more than one resonates, or if you're not sure – we'll explore them all!)