Neuroaffective Somatics assumes that the innate orientation of each human is just as it should be.
Neuroaffective Somatics is a therapeutic approach that integrates neuroscientific insights with body-focused practices to enhance emotional and physical regulation. This method can be particularly beneficial for neurodivergent individuals, who may experience the world and process information in unique ways. Here are three key benefits of Neuroaffective Somatics for the neurodivergent experience:
It recognizes the shared need that all humans have, and that some of us are attuned differently than the way the world has been constructed. Because we see WHOLE and LIVING first and foremost, this is an approach rooted in curiosity and awareness.
1. Enhanced Sensory and Emotional Regulation
Neurodivergent individuals often face challenges with sensory processing and emotional regulation, which can lead to feelings of overwhelm and stress. Neuroaffective Somatics teaches techniques such as grounding exercises, mindful breathing, and body awareness practices. These tools help individuals recognize and modulate their sensory and emotional responses more effectively. By learning to tune into their bodies and manage sensory overload, neurodivergent individuals can experience a greater sense of calm and control in their daily lives.
Actually Autistic - Self Portrait 2023
2. Improved Interoception and Self-Awareness
Interoception, the sense of the internal state of the body, can sometimes be less acute in neurodivergent individuals. Neuroaffective Somatics emphasizes developing a deeper connection with one’s physical sensations and internal cues. This practice not only aids in better understanding and responding to one's own needs but also enhances self-awareness and self-acceptance. Increased interception can lead to better decision-making regarding personal health and more effective communication of one's states and needs to others.
3. Support for Developing Social Skills and Empathy
While neurodivergent individuals might approach social interactions differently, Neuroaffective Somatics can support the development of social skills through increased emotional and bodily awareness. By becoming more attuned to their own physiological responses during social interactions, individuals can better interpret and respond to the cues of others. This heightened awareness can lead to improved empathy and more meaningful social engagements. Additionally, the practice encourages a non-verbal understanding of social dynamics, which can be especially valuable for those who find verbal communication challenging.
Overall, Neuroaffective Somatics offers a holistic approach to enhancing the well-being of neurodivergent individuals by focusing on the body-mind connection, which is often overlooked in traditional therapeutic practices that focus primarily on cognitive interventions. This approach provides tools that are adaptable and can be personalized to suit individual sensory profiles and needs, making it a versatile and effective option for supporting neurodiversity.