Living Sensationally

Living Sensationally is on KINDLE!!!

2011-04-03T15:57:00.000-07:00

I just found out that Living Sensationally is available on KINDLE. You can download the KINDLE app to your computer or phone; you don't have to have an actual KINDLE. How great to have sensory info at your fingertips! I love seeing the title page in an e- format... Makes me feel up to date ! Get an ecopy & think of me there with you.

LIVING SENSATIONALLY IN WORDLE

2010-07-07T12:57:00.000-07:00

I got introduced to this interesting website called WORDLE. You enter words into the program, and it creates art for you out of the words. A teacher I know uses Wordle to create advanced planners of her units as she teaches her first graders [cool Julie!]; she made me one for my birthday with all my research and life words on it.

Today I made one from this blog! It searches for words and selects frequent words to be be BIG and other words to be smaller in the design. You can go to WORDLE and find 'Living Sensationally Wordls Art'. try this link too:

www.wordle.net/show/wrdl/2214365/Living_Sensationally_wordle_art

GOING LIVE IN GENEVA SWITZERLAND

2010-06-25T12:12:00.000-07:00

The Brazelton Infant Development Centre in Geneva sponsored a symposium early in June: "I sense, therefore I am" for providers and researchers interested in Infant Development and the relationships between young children and their parents and other caregivers.

I was one of the speakers, discussing how Sensory Processing affects our understanding of children's behaviors, and how our relationships with children are influenced by both the children's and the adults' sensory processing patterns. The core concepts in Living Sensationally formed the basis of my remarks.

It was my first experience with having an interpreter on stage with me [the course was in French]. I would say a paragraph or so, and then he would say it again in French. I sounded GREAT as a French man!!

People were very responsive, and wanted to know more... maybe Living Sensationally can get translated into French!

BEING PART OF HOPE AND WELLNESS

2010-05-17T09:26:00.000-07:00

Last week Reji Mathew interviewed me for her blog which explores "Themes of Hope, Health, Disability, and Wellness". She had found Living Sensationally, and believes the messages about our sensory patterns can be helpful to everyone. It was such a great conversation, and in meeting her, I now know about her work and can follow her blog to find out other great projects that illustrate hope, health and wellness. Here is the link to our interview. While you are there, check out her other posts too!

http://rejimathewphd-writer.blogspot.com/2010/05/living-sensationally-understand-your_12.html

A STORY FROM BANGLADESH...

2010-05-10T09:30:00.000-07:00

I just got home from the World Federation of Occupational Therapy meeting in Santiago, Chile. It is so great to get a world view of one's profession, and to see how thinking is advancing from so many points of view!

A young therapist stopped to tell me a great story about Living Sensationally. She is completing a year of community service in Bangladesh, a country that provides intense sensory experiences because of the density of their population. She told me that some volunteers are overwhelmed and cannot complete their service, but that she has really loved the work and will be continuing there.

She stopped to tell me that on one particular trip, she was on a boat and reading Living Sensationally. People started asking her about it, and others started listening in. She eventually had more than a dozen people gathered around listening, an impromptu workshop! She told me that people found the information so helpful for their work in Bangladesh, and want to pursue using the information to help new volunteers with strategies to manage their sensory needs while in their service. Here is another way that knowing about one's sensory patterns can make life better!

I am so grateful to this young therapist for sharing her story.

A TALK ON SENSORY PROCESSING ASSESSMENT

2010-03-16T07:10:00.000-07:00

Henry Stewart Talks creates collections of talks about various topics. The Biomedical and Life Sciences Collection includes a new series entitled: Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorders: History, Diagnosis, Treatment and Outcomes [F. Volkmar, ed.]. These series are used as an educational resource by leading academic institutions and pharmaceutical companies worldwide.

Here is the full citation of my talk about sensory processing, in case you are interested in further information. I am honored to be included with the most world renowned authors on these topics.

Citation
Dunn, W. (2010), "Sensory processing: a critical assessment area for autism spectrum disorders", in Volkmar, F. (ed.), Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorders: History, Diagnosis, Neurobiology, Treatment and Outcome, The Biomedical & Life Sciences Collection, Henry Stewart Talks Ltd, London (online at http://hstalks.com/?t=BL1042668-Dunn)

Link
http://hstalks.com/?t=BL1042668-Dunn

LIVING SENSATIONALLY IN HEBREW...soon!

2010-02-04T09:13:00.000-08:00

I just found out from the publisher that Living Sensationally has been contracted to be translated into Hebrew. I was a visiting professor in Israel last year, so this news is particularly lovely for me. I loved spending time in Israel, and have some incredible colleagues there that I am still collaborating with today.

Since my goal is for the ideas in Living Sensationally to be everyday knowledge and sources of conversations around the kitchen table, I believe that this is one more step toward that goal!

Thanks to whomever initiated this project, and best wishes to you. I can't wait to see how it looks in Hebrew!

LIVING SENSATIONALLY IN GERMAN!!

2009-12-18T11:27:00.001-08:00

This week, I received my first copies of Living Sensationally translated into German... It is a really beautiful book, and it tickles me to see the words I wrote, but in another language!

Very early in the release of Living Sensationally, I participated in an interview for a German radio station, and I think this led to the interest in the book for local use. I am very grateful to the sequence of people that made this possible. "Leben mit den Sinnen"!!

THINKING ABOUT THE WEEKEND'S ACTIVITIES

2009-12-11T14:48:00.000-08:00

I am almost at the end of my work day. I am going to dinner with friends, and then to see a play that promises to be very entertaining.

I love going to the theater because of the way that plays 'PLAY' with our senses. The set design invites us to imagine sensations that we are not actually having, but by tapping our memory of the sensory experiences, we become more involved with the actors and the story. For example, scenes of winter outside the windows of a cozy home remind us of our personal experiences with heat and cold. We might shiver or take our jackets off as we watch. Scenes about cooking might remind us of smells or tastes we have experienced, bringing thos memories into our experience.

I also love the experience the actors, director and others create for me. I have learned that I have sensory and emotional experiences whether the play is wonderful or marginal; engaging our minds to use what we experience in a new way can never be a bad thing.

Think about what ignites your senses; do something that taps your sensory memories this weekend. I will see you back here to find out about them.

CREATING KITCHEN TABLE TALK

2009-12-10T17:10:00.000-08:00

I have been talking for about a year now about making sure that people become aware of their sensory patterns, so aware, so commonly aware of them, that the 4 types [seeker, avoider, bystander, sensor] become common everyday language.

I keep searching for ways to accomplish my goal. Lots of great steps toward this goal have happened, including all the activities recorded on this blog. Now I think another action I can take is to write some information and suggestions about how to be a SENSATIONAL human being on this blog.

So, for today, think about the perfect situation for yourself to get some work done... Is it quiet, or do you need some background sounds? What position do you like your body to be in?--some people like to stand, lounge, while others are happy to sit. Each of these positions gives you different sensory input about your body, which is why certain positions are more satisfying for you. Do you stay still or move around a lot? Do you need a clear space, or can you have lots of things around and still concentrate? Do you have food or snacks or something to chew on while working? Every one of these choices generates sensory experiences for you! Make a SENSATIONAL work profile, and pay attention to your ability to concentrate, be productive and feel satisfied with your work.

Seekers are most likely to have a busy environment and change around a lot.
Avoiders are most likely to create an isolated work situation with very little distractions.
Sensors are most likely to create a tidy organized work space, and are challenged if the space is not just right.
Bystanders are the most easy going workers, and can focus even in busy environments because they are not distracted by other things.

Enjoy the sensations that make your work satisfying.

2009-07-17T11:57:00.000-07:00

AMC Theatres has a program called "Sensory Friendly Films", which provides a special showing time for selected movies so that families who have a member with autism can attend the movies as a family. They make adjustments to the lights and sound and to their moving around policies so everyone has fun!

here is the link so you can see if they have a showing in your area. If not, just ask them to start the program.
http://www.amctheatres.com/promos/sensory/

I just talked to the Director, and he said that others are also accessing these showings. for example, older folks that think the movies are too loud, and that enjoy the children having fun go to these showings too. Doing great community services is good for the whole community. THANKS AMC.

2009-07-13T16:38:00.000-07:00

I got a great story from a mom who is also an occupational therapist [my profession], and she agreed to let me share her story as an illustration of the impact of sensory processing on everyday life.

Winnie,
I read with interest the article on "Sensory Sensitivities of Gifted Children" (Gere, Capps, Mitchell & Grubbs, 2009) and your response (Dunn, 2009).

It has been interesting to see students who are gifted in music and also oversensitive to auditory input. Put them in aconcert in high school (obviously with training) and they are wonderful. My own daughter hated sudden, loud noises, (ie. sirens and fireworks) to the point where we avoided parades and fourth of July celebrations. However, she is gifted musically, and at the age of 17 months sang "Happy Birthday" to a friend, with correct pitch and words. She is currently studying classical voice. I would love to hear about the positives of people who are considered "non-typical". I think that too often children are put in the non-typical box and we forget that that unusual ways of perceiving, thinking and problem solving gives birth to new ideas.

What this person is expressing is that it is our uniqueness, our quirkiness that gives rise to innovation and creativity. We are on the wrong track if we think we have to 'normalize' these aspects of people's traits because we risk losing other very helpful aspects of their behavior as well. In the article referenced above, the authors cited the gifted literature, which hypothesizes that children’s sensory sensitivities might contribute to both their superior problem solving abilities and their challenges with social interactions.

It is not surprising that children who are great musically could also be sensitive to sounds. Perhaps that is how they notice the little nuances that others miss... we cannot indict one manifestation of their trait [i.e., their sensitivity], while hailing another aspect of it [i.e., their intense musical talent]. We have to find ways for the musical talent to flourish because of the sensitivity to details, while diminishing the impact of that same auditory sensitivity on other aspects of everyday life. We need to consider the risk of diminishing the sensitivity on the superior abilities.

SEAL OF EXCELLENCE AWARD for Living Sensationally

2009-05-15T09:50:00.000-07:00

The CHILDREN OF THE NEW EARTH online magazine is awarding Living Sensationally the SEAL OF EXCELLENCE AWARD in their July 2009 publication. I am very honored to have this recognition! Here is their criteria:

"The CNE SEAL OF EXCELLENCE is an award that is created and awarded by
the Children of the New Earth Magazine management team to recognize
products, books, and CD’s that, in our opinion, are outstanding in
their field. Unlike other internationally recognized ‘Seals of Approval’, The CNE
SEAL OF EXCELLENCE is not dependent upon any monetary gain in terms of
advertising or sponsorship. Rather, it is awarded on a totally
impartial basis by consensus of the CNE Senior Management based on the
following criteria:
* It must meet a particularly high standard in terms of the
emotional support and practical guidance it offers parents, teachers,
and caregivers
* It must nurture, safeguard and support children’s bodies, minds,
and spirits, and enrich their sense of self
* It fosters an attitude of kindness and compassion for all life and nature
* It empowers children to achieve their highest potential
* It helps children develop resilience and strong social and
emotional skills
* It acknowledges and provides practical solutions for ways in
which parents and society can begin to recognize and address both the
special gifts as well the emotional, physical, and educational
challenges that are unique to today’s evolving generation of children
* It must provide parents with real, solid, practical and above
all truthful information assistance, insights and/or tools to parent
their children lovingly, supportively and holistically and to the
highest possible standard."

LIVING SENSATIONALLY IN PAPERBACK

2009-04-15T09:50:00.000-07:00

This month, Living Sensationally came out in paperback! We picked new cover art, which reflects the springtime and gives readers a different set of sensations to experience from the hard cover art. I am so delighted to have both options available to people so they can have the one that meets their needs.

LIVING SENSATIONALLY tips for the week

2009-01-22T07:27:00.000-08:00

Instead of New Year's Resolutions, how about we resolve to live the best way possible?

One of the ways to live the best you possibly can, is by celebrating your sensory patterns. so here are some ideas in the realm of WARDROBES:
Think about the characteristics of your favorite outfit from a sensory point of view. These characteristics can guide you to other clothing choices, and also provide support for getting rid of the things that dont completely honor your sensory patterns. When you are completely comfortable and confident in your clothing, you exude light, optimism, courage and happiness.

SEEKERS: consider the weight of your clothing; do you like layers? heavy jewelry? fitted pieces? all of these choices provide extra input throughout the day, and may be helpful to meeting your seeking needs.

AVOIDERS: since you may have a sparse wardrobe, consider what sensory experiences cause you to include or discard items. If you can identify EXACTLY what is acceptable to you, then you can be ready when something wears out and you need to replace it.

SENSORS: You are very picky about your wardrobe; write down what the precise characteristics are, so you start thinking about the sensory experiences that you must include in your clothing choices. When you are mindful of these characteristics, you are less likely to just cringe at an item, and more likely to say 'that is not a choice, because...'

BYSTANDERS: You may not pay much attention to your wardrobe. However, there are situations when your clothing tell a story about you. Get a friend to help you create entire outfits; take a picture of all the parts together, so you can recreate these outifts when you need to project a certain look.

Happy Dressing! You will look sensational!

LIVING SENSATIONALLY IS A SELLOUT!

2008-11-11T08:44:00.001-08:00

People have had to order Living Sensationally because it has sold out! This means more and more people are learning about their sensory patterns and sharing with others. Remember, my goal is for the 4 sensory patterns to be 'kitchen table' talk, so familiar that we can tease each other playfully about being 'seekers', 'avoiders', 'sensors' and 'bystanders' as a way of acknowledging our quirkiness and uniqueness. When we can play with our differences, we are appreciating each other rather than being irritated or frustrated.

Keep the conspiracy of wisdom and acceptance going!

UNITY TEMPLE ON THE PLAZA

2008-11-11T08:39:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, November 9, 2008, the lesson at the Unity Temple on the Plaza service was 'Diversity is Sensational'. At this congregation, they begin services with "Where diversity is praised, peace and harmony are the rewards". As the guest speaker for the lesson, I offered the idea that another way to praise diversity is to know about your sensory patterns, and the patterns of your family, friends and coworkers. We had a great time exploring this topic together, and getting 'in touch' with our senses as a way to know ourselves a little better. Being mindful includes insight and understanding, which then enables us to pause in situations and consider the meaning of the experience before taking action. Knowing sensory patterns informs our mindfulness.

PLAZA LIBRARY EXPERIENCE

2008-11-11T08:34:00.000-08:00

More than 70 people showed up at the library to find out about Living Sensationally. It is really great to see that people are interested in this topic without any other previous experiences. When I talk to colleagues and families in my professional work, they are already somewhat familiar with the ideas, and want to learn more. At the library, the ideas have to stand on their own merit as raw material; thanks to everyone who responded to this invitation to spend an evening with me. I loved all the conversation and stories people had to tell, and as always, I learn too.

And the very coolest thing: Mr Kemper, the person providing vision for the Library system in our community, took the time to come and thank me for being part of the Library series. This man is an incredible and positive force in our community; I so appreciated meeting him, and in a small way, contributing to his vision for us.

CENTRAL EXCHANGE: SELL OUT CROWD!

2008-11-11T08:31:00.000-08:00

I had a marvelous time at the Central Exchange this week (an organization of professional women). We discussed Living Sensationally, with the workplace and coworkers in mind. The room was completely full, and I was so honored to be with so many amazing women. Their questions were insightful and thought provoking for me. Every time I tell people about sensory patterns, I learn as much as they do.

SPEAKING AT CENTRAL EXCHANGE

2008-09-22T14:25:00.000-07:00

On October 30, 2008, I will be speaking to Women Leaders in Kansas City about Living Sensationally. We are going to emphasize how one's sensory patterns affect work and productivity; this is a great way to reduce judgement in the workplace and increase everyone's appreciation for each other's talents and 'quirks'.

http://www.centralexchange.org/calendar.asp?ID=3370

SPEAKING AT PLAZA PUBLIC LIBRARY

2008-09-22T14:20:00.000-07:00

This Wednesday evening, I am giving a talk at the Plaza Public Library. The librarians have done a great job letting the public know about this event; I have people asking me about it around town!
And, one of my favorite locally owned stores in town, STUFF, is providing books for sale for all the attendees.
I am really looking forward to discussing the great ideas in Living Sensationally with the community; knowing yourself and others better will only improve life in our city.

http://www.kclibrary.org/event/living-sensationally-understanding-your-senses

LIVING SENSATIONALLY IN ASIA

2008-07-28T11:45:00.000-07:00

I spent the month of June in Asia. I was invited to teach in Singapore and Hong Kong. It was really great to hear about the everyday lives of people living on another continent. It was also great to see that the concepts about how people contend with sensory experiences in their everyday lives still apply. We had many lively conversations about how to apply Living Sensationally ideas to life in Asia.

A 'TOUCHING' INTERVIEW ON CANADIAN PUBLIC RADIO

2008-05-16T14:56:00.000-07:00

I was up bright and early this morning to participate in a panel discussion on CBC, Canadian Public Radio. here is an excerpt from their intro:

Part 1: Petting Zoos - Panel
...So we thought it was worth exploring what it is that drives us to have a hands-on experience with wild and often dangerous animals.For their thoughts on that, we were joined by two people.

Alan Beck is the Director of the Center for the Human-Animal Bond at Purdue University. He was in West Lafayette, Indiana. And Winnie Dunn is the author of Living Sensationally. She's also the Chair of the Occupational Therapy Department at the University of Kansas, and she was in Kansas City.

Listen to the story:
http://www.cbc.ca/thecurrent/2008/200805/20080516.html
Winnie Dunn starts about 10 minutes into the story; press "Play Part One"
It is really an interesting story!

SENSATIONAL DISCUSSION !

2008-05-15T17:24:00.000-07:00

I found a great interactive discussion about Living Sensationally on this website:

http://lastcrazyhorn.wordpress.com/2008/05/02/whats-your-sensory-type/

People provide descriptions of their own experiences with their sensory encounters... check it out!

FEATURED IN BOOK CLUB DISCUSSION!

2008-05-15T17:12:00.000-07:00

Today I found an internet site that had a "Friday Book Club" discussion of Living Sensationally.

Terri Mauro provides guidance to parents with children who have special needs. Every Friday she reviews books for the Harried Parent's Book Club, and she selected Living Sensationally. She says it "can help you pinpoint your own sensory needs and how they may conflict with your child's." She goes on to say: "Parents ... benefit... from understanding how their own sensory profiles mess with their perception of the world and govern their behavior. It's easy to think that your child's refusal to do or eat or wear something is willful until you realize how often you, without even noticing, make those same sorts of decisions for yourself based on what feels right. Living Sensationally gives a detailed examination of four sensory styles and how they drive our actions and interactions. It may help you understand how you relate to your child, too, and why arguments arise."
http://specialchildren.about.com/b/2008/02/15/friday-book-club-living-sensationally.htm

Thanks for letting people know about this helpful resource!

TRANSLATING INTO GERMAN

2008-05-13T12:39:00.000-07:00

I just found out from the publisher that Living Sensationally is being translated into German.
Das ist fabelhaft!

COULD THIS MARRIAGE HAVE BEEN SAVED?

2008-05-13T12:18:00.001-07:00

One of my friends told me this story; it speaks to the power of Living Sensationally to become vernacular!

A family member just became divorced. She was sitting at the kitchen table with her former husband visiting. The man began straightening up the items on the table as they talked. His need to have everything 'just right' was a source of challenge in their relationship.

As they talked, she told him about Living Sensationally, and said she thought that it would be helpful to him. He immediately went to get a copy, and read it that very week. The next time they talked, the man said 'If I had known all of this information for the last 20 years, I don't think we would have been divorced!'.

I am so saddened for the challenges in their marriage, and I am so warmed by his comment that the information was helpful to him. Perhaps his life will be better now, and he can 'live sensationally'!

LIVING SENSATIONALLY TOUCHES A LIFE

2008-04-02T07:31:00.000-07:00

In January of this year, I gave a talk to the Psychiatry Grand Rounds, an interdisiciplinary group of professionals who serve children and adults with mental health disorders. The talk went well, and we had a lively discussion about SEEKERS, AVOIDERS, SENSORS and BYSTANDERS in the work place, in our client populations and in ourselves and family.

When I returned to my office, I had the greatest email from someone who had been at the Grand Rounds. But is was not from one of the interdisciplinary team members, it was from the Media Technician who set up and ensured all our sound, slides etc. were in proper order for the talk. He gave me generous permission to share his comments [thanks!]

"Hello Dr. my name is David and I was the tech this afternoon on your event. I just want to say that it was awesome. I know that you are busy and my field is not in the area in which you spoke on however I have a question. Is it possible for someone to personally have the characteristics of an Avoider or a Sensor yet put on the face of a Seeker? Maybe personally comfortable as the Avoider yet professionally having to mask as the seeker? Perhaps a new genera called the "Faker". I was just curious. Again great presentation and thank you for your time."

If you are reading this blog, you know that one of my goals is for the information in Living Sensationally to become 'kitchen table talk', concepts that everyone understands and can use to explain themselves and understand others. Well David's comments are a clear step in that direction, and I told him that he made my day!

And here is what I told him in return:

"Of course you can do what you explained... if you like most of your job duties, but you have to put on your 'game face' to complete certain tasks, that is perfect. Most of us can rally resources to do what is needed. The core of you as a sensory being is determined by what you have to do before and after the 'game' face time... if it is really you, there wont be big differences; if it is 'game' face, you will retreat before and after to regroup and recalibrate.

This is actually a great strategy... the important thing is to understand that you are doing it for an appropriate purpose... not because something is wrong with you. You are making conscious choices to act on your own behalf! In your case, when you are making sure that a presenter's talk goes off without a hitch... [and we presenters appreciate you for both your skill and your attention to us] you need to rally your social resources to complete the task. Then you can collect yourself in a more comfortable [from an Avoider or Sensory point of view] context like a dark room with your computer and no one to bother you."

Keep that KITCHEN TABLE TALK coming!

ANOTHER BLOG FULL OF INFO

2008-04-02T06:43:00.000-07:00

We ran across another blog that discusses Living Sensationally, and also contains lots of great ideas for our 'sensational lives'!

A big thanks to Beth and Lynda! And I cant wait to hear how you like the book!

http://hosmerot.blogspot.com/2007/11/living-sensationally.html

AUTISM ONE INTERVIEW

2008-02-11T12:33:00.000-08:00

Here is the radio interview with Chantal Sicile-Kira:

http://208.109.40.198/broadcasts/012908chantal%20sicile-kira.wma

INTERVIEW FOR AN ARTICLE IN COSMO MAGAZINE

2008-01-30T13:20:00.000-08:00

I got an email today asking for an interview to provide background for an upcoming story in COSMOPOLITAN magazine! The journalist wants to provide readers with information on maximizing the senses to keep the 'glow' going in relationships and sexual encounters.

We had a great conversation, and the article will appear in the May issue of COSMO. Watch for it-- I certainly will!

BOOK DISCUSSION AT PLAZA WELLSPRING SPA

2008-01-29T08:08:00.000-08:00

This Wednesday evening, we are having a book discussion group at PLAZA WELLSPRING.
http://www.plazawellspring.com/

We will launch our discussions from stories and ideas from Living Sensationally; it will really be fun. This is my first chance to just talk about the ideas with a small group of people who are new to the concepts. I am really looking forward to learning how people respond to knowing about their sensory patterns. I am certain I will get some great stories from the participants.

INTERVIEW LISTED IN SCHAFER REPORT

2008-01-29T08:06:00.001-08:00

Check this out! a web based newsletter telling people about the interview with AUTISM ONE radio

http://www.sarnet.org/lib/todaySAR.htm

BARNES & NOBLE BOOK SIGNING

2008-01-29T06:30:00.001-08:00

What a way to spend Saturday afternoon! I sat in the front windows of the Barnes & Noble with light streaming in, people walking by and readers congregating to talk about my book... it was great. I really enjoyed everyone that stopped by to share their stories.

INTERVIEW ON AUTISM ONE RADIO!

2008-01-29T06:23:00.000-08:00

Chantal Sicile-Kira interviewed me for a radio broadcast on AUTISM ONE radio. The original broadcast is scheduled for January 29th, and will be available for 6 months on their website so you can listen or download it for yourself.

The Real World of Autism, hosted by Chantal Sicile-Kira on Autism One Radio
www.autismone.org/radio/
Tuesday, January 29, 1:30-2:00 pm EST, 10:30-11:00 PST.

http://www.autismone.org/radio/?radio=schedule&archive&other
here is the link for the archived shows.

Chantal is the Author of Adolescents on the Autism Spectrum, the 2006 San Diego Book Award - Best in Health/Fitness, and Autism Spectrum Disorders, the 2005 ASA Outstanding Literary Work of the Year Award.

THEY LINE THE SLEEVES DIFFERENTLY...

2008-01-10T12:36:00.000-08:00

... did you know that? Many coats have different lining in the sleeves than in the body of the coat. If you didn't know this, perhaps you are a BYSTANDER!

A colleague of mine told me the greatest story today... she had been getting frustrated with her son because he couldn't find a coat that was acceptable. She wondered whether he wanted to be cool, and was looking for just the right coat, or whether he was just being independent.

Then her family read Living Sensationally and the whole family started talking about their patterns. My colleague started thinking about the coat situation too. The next time they went shopping, she stood back and watched her son examining the coats. He used his hand to feel down every sleeve; she realized that he was looking for the right texture for his daily activity of running his hands through the sleeve of his coat. They didnt find a coat that day, but she said she also wasnt upset with him this time.

This is a real tale of Living Sensationally... it's not about the fancy stuff, it's about the everyday experiences that comprise our days. She realized that part of what would make her son's day sensational was having the right feeling on his hands as he put his coat on each day.

Now THAT is VERNACULAR!

VERNACULAR

2008-01-10T12:23:00.000-08:00

Last week in church we had a 'White Stone' ceremony. We discussed the new year, and making big dreams, dreams we cant imagine are even possible, dreams we can grow into. We each got a small white tile, and were asked to identify a word that would symbolize our dream.

I picked 'VERNACULAR' because that is my dream for the ideas in Living Sensationally. I want families to talk about being Bystanders and Seekers at the kitchen table, laughing about each person's quirky ways of doing things. I want coworkers to consider who on their team will be best to complete a project because they understand what Sensors and Avoiders contribute to the work's success. I want friends to plan activities together with their sensory patterns in mind.

Here's to our collective understanding of each other! ahhh, the vernacular...

INTERVIEW ON AUTISM ONE

2008-01-10T12:12:00.000-08:00

On January 21, 2008, I am taping an interview with Chantal Sicile-Kira. She hosts a radio show called Autism One. She is the author of Adolescents on the Autism Spectrum which won a 2006 San Diego Book Award, and Autism Spectrum Disorders which was the 2005 ASA Outstanding Literary Work of the Year.

I am looking forward to this conversation since some of my research findings included people with Autism Spectrum Disorders; in fact we learned how the sensory processing patterns work because of the experiences of children with ASD and their families and teachers. Isnt it great that we learned ideas from them that we can now apply to everyone?

TV APPEARANCE

2008-01-10T11:58:00.000-08:00

Just before Christmas, KC LIVE hosted me on their TV show. I was included in their health segment, talking about LIVING SENSATIONALLY. They were extremely cordial, very attentive, and the interview went really well. I am working on getting a link here so you can see and hear what I have to say, instead of just reading about it... Talk to you soon!

BOOK SIGNING AT BARNES & NOBLE

2008-01-10T11:54:00.001-08:00

Barnes & Noble on the Plaza in Kansas City has scheduled a book signing for

January 19, 2008 2-4pm

I am really excited to have a chance to talk to the public in this way; this is a really busy store, so I am certain that I will see many people just running their weekend errands. What a way to celebrate everyday life: sitting in an 'everyday life' place on a Saturday afternoon. Life is good.

BOOK SIGNING RECEPTION AT KU

2008-01-10T11:46:00.000-08:00

We had a book signing and reception for Living Sensationally at the University of Kansas Medical Center in December 2007. People attended from all over the university, and were so gracious and excited about the ideas in this book.

I am so grateful for everyone's interest and support.
Read the article about the event at this web address.

http://www.kumc.edu/news/publish/School_of_Allied_Health_13/KU_professor_helps_people_live_sensationally.shtml

TIME MAGAZINE TELLS THE STORY!

2007-12-03T07:20:00.000-08:00

TIME magazine is spreading the good news about Living Sensationally!
In the December 10, 2007 issue [Obama on cover], on p. 66, there is a nearly full page story about the research that formed the basis for this book, along with pictures representing the 4 sensory patterns and many entertaining examples of daily life.

Thanks to Claudia Wallis for her skillful journalism in reporting this story.
Get the whole magazine either on the newstands, or you can order a copy online at TIME.com [prices are the same].

BLOG TO BLOG CONTACT

2007-11-14T16:23:00.000-08:00

We have found 3 other BLOG sites that have mentioned Living Sensationally in their discussions! thanks to these authors!

here are the links:

http://hosmerot.blogspot.com/

http://www.srjf.blogspot.com/

http://www.spitting-image.net/

FIRST BOOK SIGNING

2007-11-14T16:17:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, a wonderful local store called STUFF! hosted a fundraising event in their store to support breast cancer research, their "Wings of Hope" campaign. STUFF is a locally owned store that carries local and regional art, jewelry, home decor, clothing, and is a unique experience for everyone. Thanks to Casey and Sloane for including me in their event!

Living Sensationally understanding your senses was a featured item [along with the author to sign and personalize books] during the event. It was great fun talking to everyone about their lives and experiences and offering suggestions from the book. They nearly sold out of their stash too! They are going to continue to carry the book in their store.

MORE MEDIA ATTENTION!!!

2007-11-14T16:12:00.000-08:00

Exciting things are happening! I had a drive time live interview with an Ireland talk radio show, and it went really well.

I also was interviewed by Heidi Dawley, who writes for MEDIA LIFE, an online magazine. Read what she has to say at:

http://www.medialifemagazine.com/artman2/publish/Popcult_45/Our_sensory_profile_Who_we_really_are.asp

Soon, there will be an article in the IRISH EXAMINER newspaper as well.

REAL LIFE APPLICATION OF SENSORY PATTERNS

2007-11-02T12:01:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I got the greatest email. It is from a man I met on a plane ride several months ago. We had a lively conversation about sensory patterns and how they affect everyone's life. Nick emailed me to tell me that he had been thinking about these ideas, and saw an application on a TV show.... It is so perfect, I wanted to share it. THANKS NICOLAS GALLO.

Hi Winnie,
I was actually just thinking about you this week; funny you should write. In case you don't remember me, we met on a flight from Chicago to Kansas City and spoke literally the entire way.
I was watching this show on TLC called "John & Kate Plus 8", which documents the lives of a couple with 8 kids - a set of twins and a set of sextuplets. Anyway, it is interesting to see the contrast between the sextuplets in terms of not only their personalities, but also their sensory preferences. It is cool because they really have a large sample set of children to compare each child to. Because of this, I surmise, the parents are more likely to recognize these preferential differences between their children as valid differences, whereas most parents (who have children one at a time) would probably be more likely to ignore a child's sensory preferences (especially if those preferences differ from those of the parent).
Anyway, I am excited to read the book; our conversation was definitely the most interesting plane conversation I have ever had. Good luck to you in all of your endeavors.
Best,
ng
___________________________________________
Nicolas Gallo

LONDON TIMES Story about Living Sensationally

2007-10-31T16:41:00.001-07:00

Juliet Rix, a journalist that writes for the London Times, wrote a great story about Living Sensationally Understanding your Senses. Not only is she a great writer, she really understands the concepts in the book. Thanks Juliet.

http://women.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/women/body_and_soul/article2694061.ece

THE VELVETEEN RABBIT BECOMES REAL!

2007-10-31T16:38:00.001-07:00

Today is the Day that I saw my real book for the first time. I have imagined this moment for a very long time, and here it is!

The book is a total sensory experience for me: it is beautiful and fun to look at; the pages feel really creamy, the book smells new like a new car does, it is just the right weight to carry around comfortably... and it says all the things I have been wanting to tell you.

sigh...enjoy.

SURPRISE BOOK LAUNCHING PARTY

2007-10-17T05:01:00.000-07:00

Wow!
My husband led a dedicated group of friends and family to throw a surprise party for me to celebrate Living Sensationally: Understanding your Senses being available this week YEA!!!].
We celebrated at the LOCUST FACTORY [18th and Locust, KC], the art studio of several of my artist friends. It was the perfect space for celebrating creative endeavors, with beautiful art all around. My friend Brian made sure we had a big poster with the book cover on it to welcome everyone to the space.

All my Yoga friends, artist friends, professional friends, book club friends, neighbors, family and even Tim's staff from City Pets & Ponds were there to celebrate with me. My daughter Jessica had her friends Jason and Julie there to be the classiest servers I have ever seen at a party.

My nephew Michael drove my mother here from St. Louis for the event; What a gift of love that was! And my sister pitched in by taking care of everyone's dogs so they could make the trip. Even that wierd 'one day visit' didn't trigger me to wonder what was going on!

What a life I have with all these incredible people. And you will learn about many of them in the anonymous stories in the book; of course everyone thinks the stories are about them, so you will all have to share.

THANKS and I LOVE all of you!

MY FIRST BOOK SIGNING!!!

2007-10-10T10:19:00.000-07:00

This is really great...

On November 10th and 11th, I will be participating in a Holiday Sale and fundraising event as a featured 'artist' at one of our premier shops in Kansas City!

where: STUFF!
316 W. 63rd St.
Kansas City, Mo 64113
www.pursuegoodstuff.com

when: November 10th 1-4pm
November 11th 2-4pm

I will have books on hand, and will be talking to people about Living Sensationally!

WHAT IS A BYSTANDER?

2007-09-23T12:40:00.000-07:00

Bystanders are easy going; they tend not to notice what other people notice, so it takes a lot to bother them.
You might be a Bystander if you:
* can work productively with disruptions around
* tend to lose or forget your keys
* easily fit into many situations
* find a cut you didn't know you had
* miss turns when going somewhere
* hear 'I told you that before' more than others
* miss someone calling your name

WHAT IS A SENSOR?

2007-09-23T12:33:00.000-07:00

Sensors notice many details in the situations they encounter; they have precise ideas about how much is enough sensory input.
You might be a Sensor if you:
* are easily distracted by background activity
* have precise ideas about acceptable clothing textures
* order the same item at a favorite restaurant
* tend to get motion sickness
* detect errors in work product more easily than others
* notice small changes in a prepared dish [e.g., more salt]
* prefer monochromatic decorating

WHAT IS AN AVOIDER?

2007-09-23T12:27:00.000-07:00

Avoiders feel more comfortable with only familiar sensory experiences; unfamiliar sensations are uncomfortable.
You may be an Avoider if you:
* love order and routines
* have favorite foods you choose regularly
* leave gatherings when they get crowded
* use a sparse decorating style
* have serious brand loyalty for products
* have many of the same clothing items in the wardrobe
* prefer to shop online or with delivery services

WHAT IS A SEEKER?

2007-09-23T12:16:00.000-07:00

Seekers enjoy sensory input, and so they want more flavors, colors, sounds, etc.
You might be a Seeker if you:
* sing or make other extra noises [e.g., tapping a pencil]
* touch objects on other people's desks
* chew gum or candy throughout the day
* get up during meetings
* eat a wide variety of foods
* change their routes to familiar places
* have interesting combinations of clothing

BOOK CONTENTS

2007-09-21T11:58:00.000-07:00

Contents:
Section 1: Learning about the Sensory Code.
1. Sensation is Everywhere!
2. How the Sensory Systems Work.
3. Cracking Your Sensory Code.

Section 2: Cracking the Sensory Code in Daily Life and Relationships.
4. Sensational Daily Life: Living Each Day with Your Very Own Style.
5. Sensational Relationships.
6. ‘Sense’ Able Parenting: Negotiating Life with Your Children.

Section 3: Cracking the Sensory Code in Specific Areas of Living.
7. Hungry? Let Your Senses Lead the Way!
8. Sensational Wardrobes.
9. Your Home is Your Castle: Creating Living Spaces that Meet Your Sensory Needs.
10. Work is Life Too: Knowing Sensory Patterns at Work Helps You Succeed.
11. Sensational Leisure & Recreation: Let’s Get Personal.

BOOK INFORMATION

2007-09-21T11:55:00.000-07:00

Living Sensationally Understanding Your Senses
by Winnie Dunn
Jessica Kingsley Publishers
ISBN 978 1 84310 871 9
http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book.php/isbn/9781843108719

INDEPENDENT PUBLISHER OF THE YEAR

2007-09-20T12:06:00.000-07:00

Isnt it cool that my publisher is the Independent Publisher of the Year??!!

"Independent Publisher of the Year
As we celebrate 20 years of independent publishing, Jessica Kingsley Publishers has been named both the Academic & Professional Publisher of the Year and the overall Independent Publisher of the Year at the inaugural Independent Publishing Awards."

HERE WE GO!!

2007-09-20T11:18:00.000-07:00

I am really excited about this book!
It is coming out October 15, 2007, and you can order it at a bookstore or online right now.

Living Sensationally has lots of really great information, but it also has about 100 different stories about people who have different reactions to events in their daily lives... you will undoubtedly see yourself, your family, friends and coworkers in the stories. Some of them are HILARIOUS too!

In future posts:
I will tell you about my interview for the LONDON TIMES newspaper; they are writing a story about Living Sensationally!
I will give you examples of people's reactions in everyday life that reflect their sensory patterns.
I will explain how I figured out all these ideas.