decompressing

Decompressing refers to engaging in activities or behaviours that allow a person to relax, unwind, and alleviate stress or sensory overload.

This term is particularly significant in the neurodivergent community as we often experience heightened sensitivity to environmental stimuli, leading to increased stress and anxiety levels.

Making sure to have time to decompress after especially taxing events is an essential part of self-care.

How to decompress as a neurodivergent person?

Decompressing activities can vary widely and depend on our needs for that day, interests or adaptations. Flexibility is key, and what works for one person might not work for another, and even the same person can have different preferences in different situations.

A few common ways people like to wind down and decompress after an exhausting day:

• spending time alone, in a quiet environment
• spending time with other people in a noisy environment (spinning class, dancing, martial arts)
• spending time doing art, or doing “cozy hobbies” (colouring, video games, crafts), reading, time spent with your special interest
• moving your body – gentle movements (yoga, stretching, pilates), or vigorous activities (weight training, running, dancing, boxing)
• regulating your nervous system by deep pressure
• relaxation techniques, breathing exercises
• making noise, singing, letting steam out
• stimming
• unmasking in whatever shape or form it takes for you

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