What do I mean by Sensory Overload?
I was talking with a friend the other day about how I felt that I was experiencing a sensory overload at the moment. I am so grateful for technology to enable me to work from home, keep in touch with my family and friends, play games, watch films and listen to music. However, I am finding a feeling of overwhelm from so much sensory information during the day and evening.
I realised that I am spending far more time looking at a screen and talking on the phone than I would do normally as these have become the replacement for meeting up face to face. On some occasions I have a zoom call on one screen and a game on the other that we are playing and going between the two!! On top of this I am using headphones for calls more which for me increases the intensity of the call and therefore the experience for my senses.
Last Wednesday I decided to give myself an evening off, I didn’t look at my phone, laptop, or tv and I had some much needed time away from it. I did a little sorting in the flat, actually read a physical book as well as for a while doing nothing and it felt great. I am going to make sure I have more of these times each week whilst the current situation continues to ensure I allow myself that time to recharge.
Am I the only one?
I was wondering if anyone else was feeling the same? If this is you then consider giving yourself a break, what else could you be doing (and that includes having a bit of time doing nothing!)?
- Do you normally listen to music whilst you are working at your computer, perhaps try working without the music or with music rather than the radio.
- If you want to be doing something, what activities could you be doing that don’t involve a screen?
- If there are other people in the house, use this as an opportunity for a good old fashioned chat.
- Don’t forget that doing nothing is actually doing something because it could be just the thing you need to rest and recharge; allowing your mind some much needed time off.
If this connects with you please do share your experiences below and how you have helped yourself to manage this feeling.
The information contained above is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this blog are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this blog. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this blog. Claire Bolsover disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this blog.