Sleep can be a problem for someone with ASD, given our susceptibility to sensory overload. This video from goop shows how the comfy beds are made at the famous Connaught Hotel in London. I like that they don’t overdo it with bed coverings, just a good duvet. The Connaught style is something you can very much do at home for a good night’s sleep.
sleep
The Body Shop Deep Sleep Dreamy Pillow & Body Mist
Stress is the constant companion of anyone on the autistic spectrum, and can aggravate the symptoms of an already challenging condition. Autistics often have trouble sleeping, and may feel agitated while awake. I’ve been using Body Shop’s Deep Sleep Dreamy Pillow & Body Mist, to help with sleep, and during the day to keep me calm. Just spray on the pillow for a soothing night-time aromatherapy session. I carry a small bottle of it during the day, to spray on a handkerchief and sniff if I’m feeling stressed. The smell is citrus with a touch of woodsy, from ingredients that include lemon, jujube and camomile. It doesn’t make me drowsy, but clears the mind and promotes relaxation, which seems to help me with both stress and clumsiness!
Cosy Calm Weighted Blankets
Difficulty sleeping can be an issue for many autistics, and some find the pressure of a weighted blanket has a calming effect that induces sleep. Apparently, the pressure of the blanket acts like a hug, causing the sleeper’s brain to produce ‘feel good’ hormones such as serotonin, dopamine and melatonin. Cozy Calm weighted blankets are made with medicinal-grade plastic beads that are sewn in so the weight is evenly distributed, with double insulating layers for added comfort. Cozy Calm’s owner, Eileen Parker, is herself autistic and has Sensory Processing Disorder. She couldn’t find the right blanket and started making her own. The rest, as they say, is history. The blankets are custom-made to a specified weight, and a common formula is 10% body weight plus 1 pound. The Cozy Calm site has a weight chart listing the most popular weights ordered.
DESIGN FOR ASD 