Sensory Modulation

Sensory Modulation: ability to self-regulate & self-organize one's reactions to sensory inputs in an adaptive manner & ability to adapt to environmental changes 

Sensory Processing Disorder: includes Sensory modulation disorder, sensory discrimination disorder, and sensory-based motor disorder

• Sensory Modulation Disorder: difficulty self-regulating one's responses to sensory stimuli in an adaptive manner & difficulty adapting to an environment

  • Sensory Processing Patterns

    • Over-responsivity - sensory sensitivity

    • Under-responsivity - low registration

    • Sensory seeking

    • Sensory avoiding

• Sensory Discrimination Disorder: difficulty interpreting sensory stimuli and understanding all senses (eg. tactile - cannot gauge the temperature of food/drink)

• Sensory-Based Motor Disorder: difficulty in performing tasks in a smooth & coordinated manner due to underlying sensory processing challenges; includes Dyspraxia & Postural Disorder (clumsy, fine/gross motor difficulties)

Audience: Client 

Diagnosis(es)/Condition(s): ASD, ADHD, Mood disorders, Trauma & Stress-related disorders, Schizophrenia, Anxiety & OCD, Neurocognitive disorders, Physical disabilities 

Age Range/Population: Young Adult & Adult 

Purpose: To promote body awareness, emotional regulation, and sensory modulation through slow, rhythmic movement and mindful breathing. This will regulate sensory input and achieve a calm, focused state to improve the completion of tasks. 

Instructions: Find a quiet, distraction-free area with enough space for movement. The client can follow the video prompt above or integrate other movement videos.  

Rationale & Impact on Function: Using Tai Chi as a sensory modulation technique can significantly enhance occupational performance by improving both sensory processing and related functional skills. The stress and anxiety reduction capabilities can assist clients to handle better emotional or situational triggers that may impact work, school, or social interactions. The use of sensory inputs can adapt the sensory systems to handle overstimulating challenges in social settings. Cognitive skills including attention and concentration can assist productivity in the workplace, school settings, and other daily tasks. The physical benefits of proprioceptive input and postural stability can assist in balance and coordination needed for daily activities such as walking, cooking, or other leisure activities that require dynamic movements or physical activity for health management in general. 

Reference(s): Morin, A. (2024). Sensory modulation exploration activity list. Microsoft® Word for Microsoft 365 MSO (Version 2405 Build 16.0.17628.20006). https://kodiak.wne.edu/d2l/le/content/114052/viewContent/1643017/View 

Wolf, A. (2020). Tai chi: A whole-brain sensory integration. The Brain Health Magazine. https://thebrainhealthmagazine.com/concussion/tai-chi/ 

Morin, A.M.F. (2024). Sensory processing and modulation. [PowerPoint]. https://kodiak.wne.edu/d2l/le/content/114052/viewContent/1705295/View?ou=114052