Navigating the Unknown: Using Intuition as Your Compass in Autism Parenting

I’ve witnessed firsthand the whirlwind of emotions that come crashing down upon receiving an autism diagnosis.  It’s like being caught in a storm where the winds of uncertainty, fear, and overwhelm are blowing away any sense of direction or clarity.

In these moments, it’s common for our primal instincts to kick in. Fight, flight, or freeze – our bodies respond to stress in ways that are deeply ingrained in our biology. But among the chaos, there’s something else that often gets silenced.  Something so important.  Something that will change our trajectory of our journey: Our intuition.

Intuition, often referred to as our inner guide or gut feeling, is a powerful force that resides within each of us. It’s that subtle voice nudging us in the right direction, offering insights and guidance that transcend logic alone.  Hear me when I say this – You know your child better than anyone else.  Better than any doctor, specialist or therapist.  If your intuition is switched off, you will not, you cannot navigate forward on this autism journey.

So how do we begin to reconnect with our intuition during such turmoil? It starts with acknowledging and honouring the journey we’re on. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, scared, and unsure of what lies ahead. These emotions are valid and natural responses to the challenges we face.

Next, we must create space for stillness and reflection. In the midst of chaos, finding moments of quiet can feel like an impossible task. Yet, it’s in these moments of stillness that our intuition has room to speak.

Some methods that we can reconnect with our intuition include:

Meditation – It doesn’t matter if it’s 2 minutes or 10 minutes.  Take some time to just be still.

Journaling – What’s coming up in your mind.  You know the thing that keeps going round and round in your head.  Write it down.  Once it’s written it no longer will be looping in your brain.

Listen to your body – What is your gut, your inner voice trying to tell you?

Do a body scan:  What symptoms are coming up?  Where do you have tightness and stiffness?

Word vomit:  Grab a piece of paper and literally write down everything your thinking.  If typing is easier, than type.  Don’t edit what your saying, don’t worry about grammar, just write it all down.  Then go back and read through what you wrote.  Can you find any patterns?

As we begin to listen to our intuition, we may find ourselves facing difficult decisions and uncertain paths. It’s important to trust that inner voice, even when it leads us into unfamiliar territory. Our intuition knows what’s best for us and our children, even when the path forward seems unclear.

Additionally, seeking support from others who have walked a similar path can be incredibly empowering. Whether it’s through support groups, therapy, or connecting with other mums online, knowing that we’re not alone can provide a sense of comfort and reassurance.

Above all, remember to be gentle with yourself. Navigating life after an autism diagnosis is a journey filled with ups and downs, victories and setbacks. Trust that you have the strength and resilience to weather the storm, and know that your intuition will always be there to guide you along the way.

So, my dear friend, as you journey through the highs and lows of life with your autistic child, I encourage you to pause, breathe, and listen to the whispers of your intuition. For amidst the chaos, it holds the key to finding peace and clarity.

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