Noticing how your body is feeling is an important skill. The feelings in your body can provide important clues to your health. For example, noticing a runny nose or a sore throat or a headache could provide clues that you are getting sick and might need to see a doctor.
A sense called interoception is what helps us to clearly notice these body sensations or feelings. Interoception differences are common in many people, including autistic adults, which can create a confusing inner body experience. In addition to the suggestions included below, it can be helpful to learn more about interoception: https://www.kelly-mahler.com/what-is-interoception
Take time to notice how your body is feeling by completing a Body Check Form.
Try to complete a Body Check Form at least one time per day. Pick a time in your daily schedule that you have limited distractions and are able to focus on how your body is feeling. You can complete a Body Check in 5 minutes or choose to spend 20-30 minutes. And if you want, you can change the amount of time you spend on the Body Check Form each day.
When you are first starting out, it is best to complete a Body Check Form in a location where you feel comfortable. Maybe it is your bedroom, a quiet corner in your home, etc. You can sit, stand, pace, etc. when completing a Body Check Form. Do what makes you feel most comfortable. As you become more skilled, try completing a Body Check Form in a variety of environments so that you can begin to notice how your body feels in these different places.
Daily practice completing a Body Check Form may help you become more aware of your body signals and notice important clues that let you know when you are feeling healthy or when you might have a health issue.
Bonus!: Once completed, the Body Check Forms will visually show how your body feels. It can even serve as a communication tool that you bring to your medical appointments to help your medical provider better understand what your body is experiencing.
You can choose to complete the Body Check Form on your own or with the help of a trusted person (e.g., close friend or family member).
Review
Body Check Form
Tips for completing a body check form
Practice
Completing the Body Check Form
What you need: Body Check Form
When to practice: Practice completing a Body Check Form at least one time per day.
Helpful App for Doing a Body Check:
Pain Assessment Tool by Beyond Commerce
Other Resources:
A sense called interoception is what helps us to notice and understand body sensations and feelings. To learn more about interoception visit this website for free resources: https://www.kelly-mahler.com/what-is-interoception/
Reflection
Did you complete the Body Check Form today?
If yes:
- What worked well?
- What was difficult?
- Is there anything you want to try differently tomorrow?
If no:
- What prevented you from doing it?
- What is your plan for overcoming that obstacle tomorrow?
- Do you need to ask someone to help you with this plan? If so, who will you ask?