Neurodiversity is a continuum that encompasses a wide spectrum of neurological variations. Understanding the neurodivergent brain is about understanding an individual’s strengths and challenges in context with the environmental factors that can support or interfere with a neurodivergent individual’s quality of life.
The term Neurodivergent is not a condition or a disease, but rather a way to describe differences in the way an individual’s brain functions. There is no “right” way for a person’s brain to process information.
Neurodiverse minds often display unique strengths related to pattern recognition, creativity, attention to detail and problem solving - offering insightful, complex and innovative perspectives.
Areas related to social interaction, sensory processing or executive function can be more challenging, and neurodivergent individuals tend to be more susceptible to anxiety, agitation, overwhelm, depression, hypersensitivity to external stimuli (i.e. light, sounds, textures), difficulties in planning, concentration and traditional work-related tasks.
Neurological variations in the brain can present as clinically recognized conditions such as:
Autism Spectrum Disorder
ADHD
Developmental delays (speech, intellectual, motor)
Dyslexia
Dyscalculia
Acupuncture and therapeutic touch (a combination I emphasize in practice) can help to benefit neurodivergent individuals and those with clinically recognized conditions including autism spectrum disorder, ADHD and anxiety by addressing their unique sensory, emotional and social needs to support their experience of the world.
It is important to note that acupuncture does not aim to “normalize” or “fix” a neurodivergent individual. Acupuncture does, however, work with the body’s own biochemistry to encourage a deeper connection between mind and body, empowering neurodiverse individuals to embrace their strengths, advocate for their needs, and freely participate in a more vibrant state of physical and psychological long-term health.
In addition to acupuncture’s recognition as one of the most effective and clinically regarded modalities to manage pain and stress, acupuncture can support the specific health needs of a neurodivergent individual with treatments that address:
1. Sensory Regulation: Acupuncture offers an opportunity for patients to receive informed, therapeutic touch tailored to an individual’s tolerance in a safe setting, with an emphasis on empowering the bodily autonomy of the patient. (Acupuncture needles do not and should not hurt!)
Some neurodivergent individuals may also have challenges with body awareness or proprioception (knowing where your body is in space). Acupuncture can help improve body awareness by increasing proprioceptive input and enhancing the individual's connection to their body.
2. Stress & Emotional Regulation: Neurodivergent individuals may experience higher levels of stress and emotional dysregulation due to various factors such as social interactions, sensory overload, or anxiety. Acupuncture stimulates endorphins for relaxation and the release of physical tension, thereby regulating the nervous system for emotional resilience, cognitive clarity and physical relief.
3. Communication & Connection: For individuals who struggle with verbal communication or social interaction, massage therapy or bodywork paired with acupuncture can provide a non-verbal form of communication and connection. It can help build trust and rapport between the individual and practitioner.
4. Healthy Habits: Acupuncturists can teach neurodivergent individuals lifestyle skills such as breath work, self-massage, physical movement outlets and nutritional guidance tailored to support daily and long-term wellness.
5. Herbal Medicine: Chinese herbal medicine as appropriate can be used to aid with sleep, mood, stress, anxiety, digestion and more. Herbal medicine in most cases can also be used to safely manage side effects of commonly prescribed medications such as antidepressants, anxiolytics (anti-anxiety) and stimulants resulting in headaches, insomnia, nausea, loss of appetite, constipation, sexual dysfunction and exacerbation of Raynaud’s.
Balance and resilience are essential to our overall quality of life whether or not you experience neurodivergent challenges. Through acupuncture, we participate in building a unified relationship with our physiological and psychological bodies, and are able to embrace our own unique experience of the world with a greater sense of self, courage and self-compassion. It should also be noted that Neurodiversity intersects with other aspects of diversity such as race, gender, sexuality and socioeconomic status, leading to a range of experiences for neurodivergent individuals from different backgrounds.
Following a non-invasive and holistic approach, it is the patient who always guides the treatment in my office. If you or someone you know and love finds themselves in a struggle with any aspect of living as a neurodivergent individual, acupuncture can help.
More about how I work, what I treat and my contact information for bookings can be found here: Meghan Rose Acupuncture | Massage | Integrative Medicine
In peace and health,
Meghan
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