Sensory Processing

Understanding Sensory Processing: The Key to Navigating our Senses

In our daily lives, we interact with the world through our senses. Our sensory experiences shape how we perceive and connect with the environment. Sensory processing is the brain's way of interpreting these sensory inputs, which plays a pivotal role in our overall well-being.

What is Sensory Processing?

Sensory processing refers to how our nervous system receives, organises, and responds to sensory information from our surroundings. Our senses include sight, sound, touch, taste, smell, and even the less known senses like proprioception (body awareness), vestibular (balance and movement) and interoception (helps you understand what’s going on inside your body). A well-functioning sensory processing system enables us to adapt to different environments, engage in meaningful activities, and regulate emotions effectively.

Sensory Challenges

For some individuals, sensory processing doesn't occur as seamlessly. They might have sensory sensitivities, where certain sensations are perceived as overwhelming or uncomfortable. On the other hand, sensory seekers might crave intense sensory experiences. This can impact daily life, causing difficulties in social interactions, learning environments, and self-regulation.

The Role of Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapists can help you and your child to understand sensory processing challenges. Through assessments, we identify specific sensory patterns and design personalised interventions. These interventions might include sensory integration therapy, which involves engaging individuals in activities that help them better process and respond to sensory input. This might involve swinging, jumping, or tactile play, tailored to everyone’s needs. We love to create and advocate for sensory-friendly environments, which could include dimmed lighting, quiet spaces, offering fidget tools.

Sensory processing influences how we perceive the world, interact with others, and regulate our emotions. Occupational therapists play a vital role in supporting individuals in navigating and advocating for their sensory preferences and needs, so that we can ensure that sensory processing differences are understood and accommodated, fostering a more inclusive and understanding environment.