THE POWER OF EXERCISE, BODY DOUBLING, AND SENSORY ADJUSTMENTS IN MANAGING DYSPRAXIA: A PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

Being diagnosed with dyspraxia as an adult was a revelation. For years, I struggled with coordination issues, clumsiness, and tasks that seemed simple to others but were overwhelming to me. I often felt out of sync with the world around me. I had people, family and friends laugh at my clumsiness, for years it is one of those things that you just go along with.

Without knowing it, it did cause anxiety, this is where masking and mirroring help. I wanted to find a way to improve my coordination, I was always aware of the mishaps I would have, like falling over, walking into things, bumping into walls and having bruises that I could not explain. When I finally received the diagnosis, it was like a missing piece of the puzzle had been found.

Understanding that I had dyspraxia gave me the clarity I needed to start making meaningful changes in my life. I thought of ways to improve it; endless reading and searching meant I had to find a gym and personal trainer to help me. I wanted to share one of the tools that have helped.

Exercise: Reconnecting with My Body After Years of Uncertainty

Exercise became an essential tool in my journey of living with dyspraxia. Before my diagnosis, I often avoided physical activities because they highlighted my lack of coordination. However, after learning about dyspraxia, I realised that exercise could be a way to reconnect with my body and improve my coordination. I started with low-impact exercises, like swimming and walking. Swimming was transformative.

The water provided support, allowing me to move more freely without the fear of tripping or falling. The rhythmic nature of swimming helped me focus on my movements, gradually improving my coordination and giving me a sense of accomplishment. Walking also became a meditative practice that allowed me to clear my mind and organise my thoughts.

As I became more confident, I explored yoga. Yoga required me to slow down and closely observe my body’s movements and alignment. The balance and strength-building exercises were challenging at first, but over time, they improved my coordination and gave me a sense of control over my body that I had never felt before. Even on difficult days, a short yoga session helps me regain my balance—both physically and mentally.

Body Doubling: Discovering the Power of Shared Focus

Body doubling was another strategy that significantly impacted my life post-diagnosis. For years, I struggled with procrastination and difficulty focusing on tasks, often feeling overwhelmed by the simplest of things. After my diagnosis, I learned about body doubling—working alongside someone else to stay focused and motivated—and decided to try it.

The first time I tried body doubling, it was a revelation. Just having a gym buddy or the personal trainer made a huge difference.

Sensory Adjustments: Creating a Calm and Supportive Environment

Sensory overload has always been a significant challenge for me, but it wasn’t until my late diagnosis that I truly understood why certain environments made me so uncomfortable. Bright lights, loud noises, and even specific textures could overwhelm me, making it difficult to focus or relax. Once I understood this, I made sensory adjustments to create a more supportive environment.

One of the first changes I made was in my workspace. I invested in noise-cancelling headphones to block out distracting sounds and adjusted the lighting to be softer and more soothing. I also incorporated sensory tools into my daily routine, like stress balls and fidget spinners, which help me stay grounded when I feel overwhelmed.

Another significant adjustment was being mindful of the clothes I wear. Certain fabrics or tight clothing can increase my discomfort and distract me from what I’m doing. Now, I prioritise comfort, choosing clothes that feel good against my skin and don’t add to my sensory load.

Embracing My Late Diagnosis

Being diagnosed with dyspraxia later in life was both a relief and a challenge. On one hand, it explained so much about the struggles I had faced for years. On the other hand, it required me to rethink how I approached daily life. But through exercise, body doubling, and sensory adjustments, I’ve found ways to manage my dyspraxia effectively.

These strategies have not only helped me cope with my symptoms but also empowered me to embrace my unique way of experiencing the world. My late diagnosis of dyspraxia has taught me that it’s never too late to make positive changes and that with the right tools and support, I can lead a fulfilling and successful life.