This podcast discusses stimming, the unique repetitive movements that help regulate emotions for autistic individuals. It explores different types of stimming and emphasizes acceptance and non-judgment. They also provide information on various stimming objects like weighted clothing, fidget toys, and stress balls.
09:15
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Quick takeaways
Stimming is a unique and repetitive behavior in autistic individuals that helps regulate emotions, reduce anxiety, and aid in focus and concentration.
Stimming can manifest in various ways, including recognized behaviors like hand flapping or less recognized behaviors like enjoying specific sounds or sensory experiences, providing autistic individuals a natural way to cope and express themselves creatively.
Deep dives
Stimming as a form of energy regulation and focus
Stimming, short for self-stimulatory behavior, is a unique and repetitive movement or action commonly seen in autistic individuals. Stimming can help regulate emotions, reduce anxiety, and aid in focus and concentration. The podcast host, The Autistic Woman, shares her personal experience of twirling her hair as a stim, which helps her to stay focused while watching a movie or writing. Stimming also serves as a way for autistic individuals to release tension and energy, especially in stressful or anxious situations. It is a natural and important aspect of the autistic experience.
The diverse forms of stimming
Stimming can manifest in various ways, and each autistic individual may stim differently. Common types of stimming include hand flapping, rocking back and forth, jumping, spinning, and chewing on objects. However, stimming can also include less recognized behaviors, such as touching soft materials, enjoying specific sounds like waves or wind, or even savoring sensory experiences like warm sand between the toes. Stimming is not weird or abnormal; it is a natural way for autistic individuals to cope, self-soothe, and express themselves creatively when words may not suffice.
It’s natural for autistics to stim and what works for you is an individual choice. What is stimming and what are the ways people stim? Listen to learn more and to hear about the options autistics choose.