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Stimming, Soothing, and Relaxing Methods for Individuals with ADHD

March 23rd, 2023

Stimming, Soothing, and Relaxing Methods for Individuals with ADHD

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(Image source: https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/set-of-colorful-fidget-toys-to-help-reduce-stress-and-anxiety-in-kids-and-adults-on-gm1321325387-407590580?phrase=stimming)

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects millions of people worldwide πŸ˜”. Individuals with ADHD often struggle with maintaining focus, staying organized, managing their time, and controlling impulsive behavior 😫. These difficulties can lead to problems in school πŸ“š, work πŸ’Ό, and personal relationships πŸ’”.

Fortunately, there are various techniques that can be helpful in managing these symptoms and promoting overall well-being πŸ™Œ.

Stimming is a repetitive action that individuals perform to stimulate their senses πŸ€”. It can help with focusing attention and reducing stress 😌. Some effective stimming methods include using fidget toys like stress balls, fidget spinners, or fidget cubes 🧩, tapping or drumming on a surface while listening to music 🎢, rocking or swaying while reading or studying πŸ“–, chewing gum or using chewable jewelry 🍬, squeezing stress balls, or humming or singing while doing a task that requires concentration 🎀.

Soothing methods can help individuals with ADHD to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation 🧘. Some effective soothing methods include deep breathing exercises 🌬️, mindfulness meditation πŸ§˜β€β™‚οΈ, progressive muscle relaxation πŸ’ͺ, visualization exercises πŸ€”, taking breaks ⏸️, and spending time in nature 🌳. Deep breathing exercises can be as simple as breathing in deeply for a count of four, holding the breath for a count of four, and exhaling slowly for a count of four 🌬️. Mindfulness meditation involves focusing on the present moment and accepting thoughts and feelings without judgment πŸ§˜β€β™€οΈ, while progressive muscle relaxation involves tensing and relaxing different muscle groups to promote relaxation πŸ’ͺ. Visualization exercises involve imagining a peaceful or calming scene or experience πŸ€”.

Relaxing methods can help individuals with ADHD to promote restful sleep and reduce stress 😴. Some effective relaxing methods include yoga πŸ§˜β€β™€οΈ, aromatherapy 🌺, taking a warm bath πŸ›€, listening to calming music 🎢, reading a book πŸ“š, and meditation 🧘. Yoga can help to improve flexibility, reduce stress, and promote relaxation πŸ§˜β€β™€οΈ, while aromatherapy involves using essential oils to promote relaxation and reduce stress 🌺. Taking a warm bath before bed can relax muscles and promote restful sleep πŸ›€. Listening to calming music or reading a book before bed can also help reduce stress and promote relaxation πŸ“š. Meditation can help to promote relaxation and reduce stress, and guided meditations or meditation apps can be useful tools 🧘.

Incorporating stimming, soothing, and relaxing methods into daily routines can be effective in reducing stress, improving focus, and promoting restful sleep for individuals with ADHD 🌞. It's important for individuals to find the methods that work best for them and incorporate them into their self-care routine 🌟.

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TabbyCat97 March 23rd, 2023

@richuyulin

Loovee this so much Linn, thank you for the amazing post β™‘

Tabbyy

AnnaSilverberg March 23rd, 2023

@richuyulin

:o :o All the emojis! I love it <3 <3

Wonderful post Lin! :D Tons of useful info!

DonaldK March 23rd, 2023

@richuyulin that is the most unique way to write a post. However I agree with the technique because it would allow someone with ADHD to look at the images and feel respected. Thank you for writing this on your break.❀️

SleepyShyCat March 23rd, 2023

@richuyulin

Thanks for this post 😸 stimming is an excellent way to self regulate, especially for neurodivergent people, by engaging with the different senses.

Eg. There is Verbal, Auditory, Visual, Tactile, Vestibular (balance and movement) and Olfactory (taste and smell) stimming.

My favourites are tactile and vestibular stimming.

beck1 March 23rd, 2023

@richuyulin Yet another awesome and informative post. Thank you for sharing

Trosclair03 September 28th, 2023

@Huntie2017