Hello! I’m new to the sub but hoping for some advice. I’m (36f) a later in life diagnosed (31) autistic/adhd person. Learning to accomodate my sensory needs has been incredibly challenging, but immensely rewarding. I’ve been doing something I’ve always wanted to do, which is working out regularly, for a little over a year now. Once I figured out what exercises and classes work for my body, having informed instructors, quality ear plugs, and a few other things have helped me so much. I’ve gotten stronger and quicker and feel like I can meet the needs of my children, one who is autistic one who is adhd, better.

One thing is, though, I do always start getting overwhelm around the middle of whatever class I’m doing. When I leave, I’m usually on the brink of being altogether overstimulated. I can’t figure out how to deal with the bright lights for so long (classes that aren’t MELT or Yoga don’t have dim lights), and sweat is probably my worst sensory issue. I absolutely cannot stand the feeling of my sweat. As I’m sure some of y’all can resonate with, sometimes it feels like it’s painful. And clearly when I workout im going to sweat. I keep a sweat towel with me, and have tried sweat wicking clothing but it didn’t really help. I’d really like to reduce how awful I feel when those two sensory related problems start to pose an issue. This issue makes me not able to do two classes back to back or the longer classes which is frustrating. Swimming really isn’t an option for me.

I’m afraid, though, if I can’t figure it out soon I’m going to burnout. Which I don’t want to do. Any suggestions or advice would be very appreciated. Thanks!