What's In Your Sensory Tool Kit?
The holiday season can be a stressful time. Be sure to spend some time this holiday season practicing your self care activities. A great way to manage stress is through your sensory system! Here is a quick guide on how to build your own sensory tool kit.
We can use our senses to regulate our emotions and energy level. Your sensory tool kit can be used tp calm or stimulate our sensory system.
Calming
When you are feeling too anxious, you can use calming sensations to come back down to a calmer state.
Ideas for Sense of Sight:
- Nature
- Calming scene
- Family Photos
Ideas for Sense of Smell:
- Lavender scented lotion
- Home cooked meals — comfort food!
- Candles
Ideas for Sense of Taste:
- Chocolate
- Herbal tea
- Warm milk
Ideas for Sense of Touch:
- Soft blanket
- Warm shower
- Pets
Ideas for Sense of Hearing:
- Ocean sounds
- Rain sounds
- Relaxation music
Alerting
When you are feeling too tired or low energy, you can use alerting sensations to wake up your sensory system.
Ideas for Sense of Sight:
- Natural Light
- Bright colors
- Flashing lights
Ideas for Sense of Smell:
- Citrus scents
- Cinnamon
- Peppermint scents
Ideas for Sense of Taste:
- Crunchy nuts
- Spicy food
- Sour candy
Ideas for Sense of Touch:
- Cold shower
- Cool air
- Scratchy sweater
Ideas for Sense of Hearing:
- Salsa music
- Alarm clock
- Birds chirping