Setting the Tone for Success: The Power of “Motivational Mondays” for Young Autistic Adults
In the whirlwind of our daily lives, finding rhythm and balance is crucial, especially for young adults on the autism spectrum. That’s where “Motivational Mondays” comes in—a universal Zoom gathering designed not just to start the week right but to empower, inspire, and unify autistic adults through health, wellness, life coaching, and yoga. Here’s why this innovative approach is transforming lives:
A Shared Space of Understanding
“Motivational Mondays” offers a unique platform where young autistic adults can come together in an environment that understands and celebrates their differences. It’s a space where individuals can share their experiences and challenges without fear of judgment, creating a tight-knit community of support and understanding.
Health and Wellness at the Forefront
The incorporation of health and wellness topics offers practical advice and strategies to manage daily stressors and maintain physical well-being. From nutritional tips to mental health coping mechanisms, these sessions equip participants with the tools they need to thrive.
Life Coaching: Navigating Life with Confidence
Life coaching sessions within “Motivational Mondays” are tailored specifically to address the aspirations and challenges faced by young autistic adults. These sessions help uncover personal strengths, set achievable goals, and navigate life’s hurdles with confidence and clarity.
The Transformative Power of Yoga
Yoga is more than just physical exercise; it’s a practice that harmonizes body, mind, and spirit. For autistic adults, yoga sessions offer a way to find inner calm, improve focus, and enhance self-awareness. It’s a foundation for building a structured routine that fosters growth and self-acceptance. We will be implimebting one routine a week to set a tone for your weekly rhythm and goal accomplishments!
Out Stony Brook University Broadcast Night.
Setting the Rhythm for the Week
Starting the week with “Motivational Mondays” establishes a positive rhythm that carries through the rest of the week. The inspiration, lessons, and sense of community gained from these gatherings empower participants to face the week with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism.
A Journey of Self-Discovery and Empowerment
Each “Motivational Monday” session is a step forward in the journey of self-discovery and empowerment. It’s about creating a life where autistic adults don’t just survive but thrive. Through health, wellness, life coaching, and yoga, participants find their rhythm, embracing each week with open arms and a resilient spirit.
Joining Hands in Celebration and Growth
“Motivational Mondays” is more than just a weekly meeting; it’s a movement towards creating a nurturing community for young autistic adults. It’s about coming together to inspire and uplift each other, finding joy in every achievement, and facing challenges with courage.
In embracing “Motivational Mondays,” young autistic adults are not just setting the tone for their week—they’re crafting a future where they lead lives filled with purpose, success, and holistic well-being. Let’s join hands in this beautiful journey of growth, wellness, and motivation.
“This blog aims to capture the essence and transformative potential of “Motivational Mondays” for young autistic adults, emphasizing its role in fostering a positive, supportive, and empowering community.
Bringing confidence and hope to our “ Motivational Mondays News Show “ Dr. Christine Grimaldi
As a dedicated psychologist and autism specialist, I recognize the unique journeys of Young Adults on the autism spectrum.
Here’s why a “Motivational Monday” Zoom group session is a fantastic way to kickstart their week on a positive note:
Tailored and Accessible:Zoom allows young adults to participate from the comfort and safety of their home, accommodating those who may find new environments challenging.
Routine and Structure: Mondays can set a positive tone for the week. These sessions add structure and create a predictable routine, which is reassuring for many children on the spectrum.
Social Skills in a Safe Setting:Group activities are structured to promote interaction, teamwork, and social engagement in a supportive environment, helping to build crucial communication skills.
Confidence and Individuality:Celebrating personal achievements and individual strengths in a group setting boosts self-esteem and encourages children to view themselves as valuable community members.
Positive Ripple Effect:Starting the week motivated and happy can influence the entire week, making challenges more manageable and interactions more positive.
“Motivational Monday” sessions are more than just a weekly gathering; they’re a launching pad for confidence, social growth, and a positive mindset for children on the autism spectrum. Join us in making every Monday a step towards a more inclusive and supportive world for these incredible kids.
Monday Nights 7 pm Held by the News Makers Autisticana
To join this fabulous group including our weekly Yoga rhythm to practice for the week Text me or DM me at 631-838-3332 and will send you the link !
The world as we knew it has irocably changed. The pandemic, a seismic event that rocked the very foundations of our lives, has left in its wake a landscape rife with challenges. As we navigate this altered reality, where resources are scarcer and the tentacles of fear and uncertainty have sunk deep, the path forward can seem daunting, even insurmountable. Yet, it is precisely in these moments of profound change and apparent desolation that the seeds of hope and resilience can be sown.
Embracing Our Shared Humanity
The pandemic has underscored a fundamental truth that we often overlook: our interconnectedness and shared humanity. It has shown us that neglect and isolation, while seemingly easier choices in the face of adversity, do nothing to mend our broken world. Participating in the collective good, engaging with our communities, and extending a hand to those in need are not just acts of altruism; they are the very threads that can weave a tapestry of healing across the frayed fabric of our society.
Cultivating Resilience Through Connection
Human beings are inherently resilient, capable of extraordinary feats of strength and adaptability. This resilience is fortified not in isolation but through connection. In a world where fear has become a constant companion, making the effort to connect—to truly see and hear one another—can be a radical act of defiance. It’s here, in the shared stories of loss, hope, and survival, that we find common ground and a wellspring of collective strength.
How We Can Thrive
Foster Community: In a time when resources are scarce, building and relying on community networks can make a monumental difference. Whether it’s forming local support groups, engaging in community gardening projects, or creating platforms for sharing resources, every step towards fostering community is a step towards rebuilding our world.
Adapt and Innovate: The post-pandemic world requires us to be agile, to think creatively about solving the challenges we face. This could mean adapting our skills to new industries, finding innovative ways to support our livelihoods, or developing sustainable practices that reduce our reliance on strained resources.
Prioritize Mental Health: The psychological toll of the pandemic cannot be overstated. Prioritizing mental health—be it through seeking support, practicing mindfulness, or simply allowing ourselves to grieve and process our experiences—is crucial for nurturing resilience.
Champion Empathy and Kindness: Small acts of kindness can have ripple effects in a world grappling with fear and uncertainty. Empathy for others’ experiences, even when they differ vastly from our own, can bridge divides and foster a sense of solidarity and hope.
Educate and Advocate: Staying informed and advocating for equitable access to resources and support for all communities is essential. Education empowers us to make informed decisions, challenge injustices, and advocate for policies that protect and uplift the most vulnerable among us.
Looking Forward
The road ahead is uncharted, but not impassable. In every challenge lies an opportunity for growth, in every ending, the promise of a new beginning. By embracing our shared humanity, cultivating connection, and finding the courage to reimagine our world, we can forge a path forward—a path not defined by fear or scarcity, but by hope, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to one another.
Together, we can emerge from the shadows of the pandemic into a brighter, more compassionate world. Let us choose to participate, to engage, and to believe in the indomitable spirit of humanity. Our journey through this post-pandemic world is not just about surviving; it’s about thriving, together.
These are the words our team at Autisticana are living by each and every day thanks to our coach
Dr. Christine Grimaldi in hopes that you will all join us in some wonderful life changing projects this year.
Title: Unlocking the Secrets of the Vagus Nerve: A Key to Easing Anxiety and Releasing
the Nervous System
In the intricate dance of human biology, the vagus nerve plays a central role, affecting our emotional and physical wellbeing in profound ways. Often referred to as the “wandering nerve” for its extensive reach throughout the body, the vagus nerve is a crucial part of our parasympathetic nervous system—the rest and digest system. Its influence on our health and mood is vast, but of particular interest is its relationship with anxiety, stress, and the way our bodies respond to these states.
Understanding the Vagus Nerve
The vagus nerve is the tenth cranial nerve and the longest in the autonomic nervous system, extending from the brainstem through the neck and down into the chest and abdomen. It innervates various organs, including the heart, lungs, and digestive tract, hence playing a significant role in regulating heart rate, respiratory rates, and digestive processes. Beyond these physical functions, the vagus nerve is a key player in our emotional health, particularly in how we manage stress and anxiety.
Anxiety and the Nervous System
When we face stress or danger, our bodies typically react in a fight, flight, or freeze response, managed by the sympathetic nervous system. This reaction increases heart rate, blood pressure, and adrenaline levels, preparing the body to deal with the perceived threat. However, in the modern world, where stressors can be continuous and non-physical (like work pressure or personal conflicts), this response can become chronic, leading to anxiety and leaving our nervous system “stuck” in a state of heightened alertness.
The Role of the Polyvagal Theory
Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, the Polyvagal Theory offers a nuanced understanding of how the vagus nerve influences our response to stress and anxiety. According to this theory, there are three main states of the autonomic nervous system:
Safe and Social State (ventral vagal state): Governed by the ventral branch of the vagus nerve, this state promotes feelings of calm and safety, where social engagement is possible.
Fight or Flight State (sympathetic state): When a threat is perceived, the body switches to this state, preparing for defensive actions.
Freeze or Shutdown State (dorsal vagal state): Governed by the dorsal branch of the vagus nerve, this is a more primitive response, leading to feelings of numbness or dissociation when overwhelmed.
By navigating these states effectively, the body can maintain a balance, ensuring that the nervous system can adapt and respond to stress without becoming overwhelmed.
Stimulating the Vagus Nerve to Release the Nervous System
Research has shown that activating the vagus nerve can shift the nervous system out of the sympathetic state and into a calmer, ventral vagal state, thereby alleviating anxiety and its associated symptoms. Here are some practical ways to stimulate the vagus nerve:
Deep, Slow Breathing: Practices like diaphragmatic breathing or pranayama can activate the vagus nerve and promote relaxation.
Cold Exposure: Brief exposure to cold, such as splash of cold water on the face or cold showers, can stimulate the vagus nerve.
Singing, Humming, or Gargling: These activities can activate the muscles connected to the vagus nerve, encouraging relaxation.
Yoga and Meditation: Both practices are known to increase vagal tone, fostering a state of calm.
Physical Connection: Hugging, cuddling, or even petting animals can increase oxytocin levels and stimulate the vagus nerve.
Conclusion
The interplay between the vagus nerve, anxiety, and the polyvagal theory offers a compelling glimpse into the complex workings of our nervous system. By understanding and leveraging these relationships, we can find natural and effective ways to manage anxiety, encourage emotional well-being, and release our nervous system from the chronic states of alertness that modern life often provokes. Through simple, intentional practices, we have the power to tap into the healing potential of our own bodies, proving once again that sometimes, the keys to wellbeing lie within our reach, quietly waiting in the biology that binds us.
For more practices on releasing your anxiety please call
Dr. Christine Grimaldi and book your session today!
Title: Neurodiversity 101: An Introduction to Understanding Differences
Have you ever heard of the term ‘neurodiversity’, but still find yourself wondering what it truly means? In this article, we’ll provide a basic understanding of this important and inclusive concept.
What is Neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity is a broad term that has gained growing recognition as a critical aspect of societal inclusion. Originating from the autism community in the late 1990s, it refers to the diversity of the human brain and mind. It encapsulates a variety of conditions including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others. All these differences are simply variations in the human genome, leading to varieties in human behaviors, skills, and abilities.
Neurodiversity: Is it a Positive or Negative?
The neurodiversity movement asserts that neurological differences among people should be recognized and valued, not pathologized or stigmatized. Neurodiversity offers a new lens through which to view neurological divergence, i.e., less as a disability, but more as a normal and positive variation of human genetics.
This is not to undermine the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, but rather, it emphasizes that these differences are not indicators of damage or disorder, but of diversity.
Understanding Neurodivergent People
Neurodivergent people can vary profoundly in how they think, learn, and approach life. For example, individuals with ADHD may struggle with tasks that require sustained focus but excel in a dynamic, rapidly changing environment. Autistic individuals may have difficulty with social interaction and communication but may display remarkable abilities in areas such as memory, pattern recognition, or in-depth focus.
The Importance of Neurodiversity
The neurodiversity narrative is significant because it encourages the acceptance of differences and challenges societal norms about what is ‘normal’ or ‘healthy.’ It promotes understanding, acceptance, and equality among all people, regardless of their neurological design. It allows for the celebration of unique strengths and qualities, and not just the focus on weaknesses or perceived deficits.
Inclusion and Support
Inclusion means designing systems flexible enough to accommodate these differences and provide support when needed. In schools, this might mean providing additional learning support for neurodivergent students. In the workplace, this could mean creating an environment that supports neurodiverse ways of thinking, planning, and processing information. Such support can enable neurodivergent individuals to contribute constructively and thrive personally and professionally.
Final Thoughts
Understanding neurodiversity can significantly change how we view and interact with those around us. It reminds us that diversity goes beyond visible differences—it also includes the unique wiring of our brains. Embracing neurodiversity can pave the way towards a society that respects, uplifts, and benefits from the full range of human capabilities.
Remember, neurodivergence isn’t a problem that needs rectifying, but a part of our human fabric that should be understood, embraced, and celebrated. Let’s create spaces that not only accept differences but also see them as a strength in our collective human tapestry.
Stay tuned for more in-depth exploration of all things neurodiversity in the coming posts!
I am in the midst of writing a book with Theo Smith about parenting and neurodiversity due to come out in early 2025 so I am thinking a lot about being a parent of a ND child and working… and how it is difficult trying to juggle home and work life. I always think wherever you are, you are guilty of something!
” I should be working now” or ” I should be with the kids now”…
We chip off parts of ourselves to try and be our best wherever we are … sometimes feeling that we are not doing anything right.
“I learned, however, that the loss of balance is ultimately more painful than the giving up required to maintain balance. It is a lesson I have continually had to relearn. As must everyone, for as we negotiate the curves and corners of our lives, we must continually give up parts of ourselves. The only alternative to this giving up is not to travel at all on the journey of life.”
― M. Scott Peck, The Road Less Traveled: A New Psychology of Love, Traditional Values and Spiritual Growth
While I was married and had a great husband I was the person involved in planning and doing most of the day to day parenting. I was a young parent and had a young mother and was extremely lucky that my mother, lived in the same city and was a key person helping me and truly allowed me to be able to work.She didn’t work outside the home and was a fantastic support system for me in many, many small and bigger ways. As a grandparent, today, I am still working full time. I try to support my children as much as possible ( I made macaroni cheese yesterday while taking a meeting online!) but I am not able to take on the day- to- day care.
After school club is something that has become a practical necessity but comes at a cost. Five days a week in 2023 costs on average £67.42. If you have more than one child … then do the maths!
Where and when you work can make a difference
Being a parent of a ND child is wonderful but sometimes can be challenging.If you have a job that allows you to work from home this provides some potential for you to respond to ’emergency’ situations that by definition are unplanned.
It can mean you are there to listen to your kids when they have had a bad day at school (which usually ends at 3.30 and not 5.30). By being there you can avoid a meltdown and a potential long night of disruption and poor sleep for all. You can be there to sit with your child while they do homework (or none gets done). The secondary impact of coming home at 6 o’clock for your ND child is not having some quiet down time after school which may also be important to ensure a settled evening and night.
Caring ++ impacts on careers
There is some evidence that the prevalence of providing care peaks around ages 45–54 years for women and 45–64 years for men (Robards et al., Reference Robards, Vlachantoni, Evandrou and Falkingham,2015; Department for Work and Pensions, 2017).This importantly also coincides with the peak time for many people trying to progress as much as possible in jobs!
“One-third of mid-life individuals are ‘sandwiched’ between multiple generations, by having at least one parent/parent-in-law and one grandchild alive. Among them, half are simultaneously supporting both generations. Caring for grandchildren increases the probability of also supporting one’s parents/parents-in-law, and vice versa.”
One of the central issues regarding caring for multiple generations is how carers divide their resources (time, work, finance, child care, elderly etc.) between the generations. One article in the Guardian described the the latest UK census showing that about 1.5 million carers spend more than 50 hours each weekcaring for elderly or disabled relatives
Women are 7x more likely to be out of work because of caring duties. This hits women hardest in their 30s with one in 10 women in this age group dropping out of the jobs market because of pressures of looking after their family.
How many of these are parents of ND children?
What are the real costs of this?
Neurodivergent children at increased risk of being excluded from school – I know many parents waiting with trepidation for a call from school every day/ and or need more support from parents practically and emotionally.
Having an ND child means more contacts with school on a day- to- day basis.
More attendances at Primary Care on an already over burdened GP services. Hobbs reported in 2016 there were increased frequent visits of children which may indicate underlying unmet medical or psychosocial needs. This increased by 9.3% between 2007 and 2014 among children below 5 years of age.
Parents waiting for support in schools, or waiting for a diagnosis for their child may have increased health issues themselves. There is evidence that frequent attendance is related to presence of psychosocial and mental health problems, younger age, school absence, presence of a diagnosed chronic condition, and high level of anxiety in their parents.
The time costs for navigating diagnostic and intervention pathways requires time from a parent- attending appointments, completing paperwork.
What can we all do?
Recognise this IS a BIG reality.
Carers UK estimates that the number of unpaid carers has risen to 10.6 million (Carers UK, Carers Week 2022 research report). This means that 1 in 5 adults in the UK are currently providing care. Every year, 4.3 million people became unpaid carers – 12,000 people a day (Petrillo and Bennett, 2022).That unpaid care saves millions of pounds so providing support to the carers makes sense for us all. The unpaid work performed by carers for family members is too often ignored in work place and social policy discussions. .
*In the UK there is a new Carers Leave Regulation (2024) which is worth a read.(I am concerned that this may mean there will be ironically increased inequality and discrimination against female workers….. what do you think?)
Know that we pay for it – in many ways if we don’t recognise this.
Women, in particular, acting as the sandwich filling have a greater risk of :
Burnout
Loss of talent and earnings
Loss of a chunk of your workforce
Greater burden on an overstretched workforce e.g. G.Ps.
Parents/Carers are your ‘cheapest’ support system.. so we need to ALL protect them
Flexibility, where possible, assists everyone at different stages of their lives.
“Leadership is not being in charge, it is about taking care of people in your charge.” says Simon Sinek
Please discuss this in your organisation today!
What can you do as a parent?
Seek and use all your support networks 👫: Connect with communities and support groups for parents of neurodivergent children. Sharing experiences and advice can be incredibly uplifting and informative. Trade support with other parents if you can in your school – it is a survival tactic!
I have experienced in the past being the filling in the sandwich and remember to cherish the parents and children you have while you have them. But I also remember it was exhausting too. Your friends can sometimes help you to the humour in the moments too!
Prioritise your self-care 💖:Being a parent is a marathon and not a sprint.Taking care of yourself is not selfish—it’s essential. Regular breaks, exercise, and hobbies can recharge your batteries and improve your ability to care for others. Even a 10 minute walk in the fresh air or 5 minutes having a cup of tea allows you to see you have some time which is yours too.
Blog Author
I am Amanda Kirby, CEO of Do-IT Solutions a tech-for-good company that delivers consultancy and guidance, consultancy, training and web-based screening tools that have helped 10s of 1000s of people.
Contact us and we can discuss how we can help.
We strive to deliver person-centered solutions relating to neurodiversity and wellbeing.I am a mixed bag of experiences and skills and have 25+ years of working in the field of neurodiversity.
I am a medical doctor, Professor, and have a Ph.D. in the field of neurodiversity; most important of all I am a parent and grandparent to neurodivergent wonderful kids and am neurodivergent myself.
On Wednesday, the Newsmakers completed our very first virtual tour to Disney World in Orlando Florida. We were shown the six parks, which I never heard of before. I was only familiar with a few of them and have visited Magic Kingdom a couple times with my family. As a Disney enthusiast, I would love to visit Blizzard Beach in person because it’s one of the recent water parks to be owned by Disney.
The host of our journey was named Albani. She was very gracious and very helpful in answering all our questions. It was interesting to hear all about the differences between the different parks. We learned about each of them and two of them are waterparks!
Here’s a photo of some of us on the trip with our tour guide Albani
The Magic Kingdom is one of the most popular places in Disney World. It’s where the magic begins! Animal Kingdom is the safari park of Disney World. There are so many animals in this park. You can explore all the animals on a safari through the park. Epcot features countries around the world and explores this through rides.There is so much to do to discover the world and explore about these countries while learning and having fun with friends! Hollywood Studios is all about the rides with cool thrills and you can see memorabilia from different films like Toy Story and Star Wars. Lastly, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon are Disney World‘s waterparks.
A photo of Disney’s Mickey Mouse and friends – featuring Miney Mouse, Goofy, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Pluto, Chip & Dale
