Rest Series (6/8): Sensory Rest

Sensory input is happening all the time. The stimuli coming in from sound, site, smell, touch, and even taste can be overwhelming to the brain and body.

With the boom in technology, we are able to see more things, hear more things, and be on screen with more people and faces. And while this has been a positive thing it can also be very overwhelming.

What can happen with too much sensory input?

Some people might not notice that they begin their day off feeling fine and by the end of a work day they feel agitated and irritated. Going home to see the T.V. on can be the last straw because one more noise and thing to look at, just feels like too much.

What is currently happening around me?

As I am writing this in my office, I currently can see two light lamps, my computer, my phone, and the other items on my desk. I can hear two clocks, a sound machine, and an air filter. Oh, and the typing of the keyboard. Plus, I am touching my keyboard while my forearms are on the desk, slightly agitated by the pressure, and my back up against the chair. This is in the background all day long for me. Sometimes we don’t even realize how much stimuli is coming in because it is background.

I have always been sensitive to sensory input. I believe it is my introvert that senses this. Quiet moments, and even longer quiet moments are definitely my jam and I utilize decreasing sensory input when I can and when it is appropriate.

If you find yourself becoming on edge, agitated, and irritable with sound, site, smell, touch, and even taste try utilizing some of these techniques and see how they work.

Sensory input rest suggestions to try:

-       Limit sounds.

-       Turn down bright lights.

-       Limit screen time with your phone, computer, T.V.

-       Lay on your back with your eyes closed.

-       Shut your eyes for a few minutes to re-charge.

-       Light a candle that is soothing to your nervous system.

-       Have a scent, like lavender, to smell to help bring calm and regulation into your system. Only use a smell that is soothing and not one that is irritating.

-       Take a week or two or even month off from social media.

-       Turn off phone notifications.

-       Only check your email once per day.

-       Drive with no sound.

-       Lay in a dark room and breathe.

Whether you are aware of the sensory input that is happening around you or you are just learning about it, becoming mindful and aware can make a big difference.

Intentionally setting some time a side each day to limit sensory input can help to decrease this deficit and you might just begin to feel more rested. Let me how this worked for you and which one you enjoyed the most.

If you are wanting help on your rest journey, reach out today.

As a therapist and counselor in Utah I am here to help. I help individuals in Ogden, UT and those in Davis County, Salt Lake County, Park City and Utah County with online therapy reach their goals.

I work with individuals in need of anxiety and stress therapy, who have high-functioning depression, and trauma and PSTD. Call or text 385-240-0689 or email kristi@illuminetherapy.com to set up a free 15-minute consultation to see if I would be a good fit for your needs.