Step by Step

Step by Step
            As I work on the manuscript for my upcoming book Autism Outdoors, I’m finding that key information I want to convey is about working step by step to address challenges. Working in incremental steps is helpful for managing a wide variety of problems. It is especially effective in helping a person work through complex layers of sensory dysregulation.
            One of the most effective supports we found in helping our profoundly autistic son—who has spent much of his life vigilantly protecting himself against incoming sensory input—has been spending time outdoors in nature. For a person overwhelmed by every manner of sensory input, being anywhere, indoors or out, can feel threatening rather than enjoyable.
            Sean learned through repeated experience being outdoors that hearing the sound of the wind, sensing the vibration of crashing waves, and feeling a breeze on his cheek do not have to be scary or unpleasant. Over time, he learned that the ever-changing sights and sounds of nature can bring comfort.
            Step by step, including on many sets of scenic stairs in mountain forests and on coastal bluffs, we have moved forward in an effort to make life not only tolerable but enjoyable, despite his sensory processing system that is susceptible to overresponding.
            Take the time to work through challenges step by step. Allow yourself the patience and grace to know you may fall back a step or two sometimes. Keep putting one foot forward!
            This week’s Hike Notes from the archives, Marshall’s Beach from Immigrant Point, introduces a walk that involves more than one set of winding stairs, from a high hill to a bluff plateau, and then down the bluff again to the beach, all with grand views in sight.
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This week’s hike from the archives:
Hike Notes 18: Marshall’s Beach from Immigrant Point