Some days, my body feels like it’s humming. Not in a peaceful way, but like it’s bracing for something – even if nothing’s wrong. That’s my nervous system speaking. For a long time, I didn’t notice these signals. I just thought I was “too sensitive” or “dramatic.”
Sound familiar? Being autistic, ADHD, or otherwise neurodivergent often means living with a more finely tuned nervous system. We sense things more (lights, sounds, moods, expectations) and we react deeply. But noticing that this is a nervous system response, not a personal failure, can change everything.
Signs I’ve learned to recognise: •
- I suddenly feel exhausted after a conversation → maybe my social battery is empty.
- I keep doom-scrolling but can’t retain anything → could be a freeze response.
- I’m snappy or can’t sit still → might be a sign I’m overstimulated.
- I’m craving sugar or screens → hello, dysregulated self-soothing.
Instead of judging myself, I’m learning to pause and ask: What’s my nervous system trying to tell me?
Gentle ways to support myself: •
- Dim the lights
- Move my body (even stretching or rocking helps)
- Put on compression wear or a hoodie •
- Let my cat Maya lie next to me
- Cuddle and play with my dog Milo
- Lie down and listen to one song with closed eyes
- Ask for a few quiet minutes from the people around me
Mindfulness isn’t about sitting still with perfect posture. It’s about noticing without judgment. Today, I invite you to check in with your body. Not to fix it, but to hear it.
🫶 You deserve safety, slowness, and softness.
Journaling prompts:
- What does my body feel like when I’m overstimulated, shut down, or anxious?
- What soothes me in those moments, realistically and gently?
- What signals have I been missing or ignoring lately?
Until next time – stay messy, mindful and magical. ✨
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