This article explores ways you can uphold your sensory comfort levels while studying or working.

Autistic people can be more or less sensitive than non-autistic people to the main five senses, as well as the senses for balance (vestibular), movement (proprioception) and awareness of internal states (interoception). These sensory differences can also fluctuate based on environment, mood, and anxiety levels.

Sensory dysregulation can be a distressing experience for autistic people. Whilst the sound of a whirring fan or noise from tapping keys on a keyboard may blend into the background for non-autistic people, this may be incredibly intrusive to autistic people. Likewise, the sensation of an itchy label in clothing can drive an autistic person to distraction all day, leaving them unable to focus. Sensory seeking (actively seeking out sensory experiences/stimuli) can also be a key feature of an autistic person’s identity. It’s important to consider both aspects in order to create a sensory equilibrium, and to support wellbeing and focus.

Considering your sensory comfort levels when studying can be a valuable way of improving your focus and increasing productivity. Here are some ways you can curate a personalised study/work space, taking into consideration your own sensory preferences:

• Create a sensory profile based on your individual preferences, and identifying when certain sensory stimuli may be needed in different situations. Take your time with this, and keep it as a working document to add to
• Be aware of your sensory tolerance levels when studying, adjusting your environment or expectations to reflect this. Try dividing your ‘to do’ list into easy/medium/difficult tasks so you have a ‘menu’ to pick and choose from depending on how you feel
• Trial different sensory strategies and tools such as fiddle resources, textured seat cushions, weighted blankets, noise cancelling headphones/earplugs
• Explore sound and soundscapes as a tool to support studying. Try Noisli to create your own personalised soundscapes
• Consider any sensory seeking activities you may need to engage in to support focus. For example, having a movement break or engaging in exercise before sitting down to study.
• Think about the visual environment – do you need to move anything on your desk to support your focus, or sit in a different room?

Take a look at Pete Wharmby’s talk on sensory sensitivity for more guidance on how to integrate information about your sensory profile into daily life.