Examples of Stimming
Stimming can vary widely from person to person, and what might be considered stimming for one individual might differ for another. Here are some common examples of stimming:
Hand Movements:
Flapping, clapping, wringing hands, tapping fingers, or repeatedly opening and closing fists. See some examples on YouTube here.
Body Rocking:
Swaying back and forth, rocking side to side, or moving the whole body in repetitive motions.
Repetitive Sounds or Vocalisations:
Humming, making repetitive sounds, echolalia (repeating words or phrases), or clicking noises.
Visual Stimming:
Staring at lights or spinning objects; or fascination with specific visual stimuli.
Fidgeting:
Playing with objects like pens, rubber bands or stimming tools; twisting hair; or rubbing fabrics for tactile stimulation.
Mouth or Oral Stimming:
Biting nails; eating cold or crunchy food; chewing on objects; repetitive tongue movements; or lip smacking.
Smelling or Sniffing:
Engaging in repetitive sniffing of objects or surroundings, e.g. aromatherapy oils or scented candles.
Mental Stimming:
Examples include repeating words in head; counting up or down from a specific number; reciting poems or song lyrics
Tactile Stimming:
Enjoying certain textures or sensations by rubbing surfaces; touching specific materials; or feeling different textures.
See some examples of different types of stims
Watch our video which shows some examples of the different types of stims.
Stimming can be unique
Remember, stimming can be unique to the individual and might serve different purposes, such as emotional regulation, sensory regulation, self-expression or aiding executive functioning. These actions can play important, positive roles and can be vital for an individual's well-being and self-management in their daily lives.
A stim that works for one person, might not work for another.
Two people may do the same stim, but it may be for completely different reasons.
Someone might use a stim in one situation but in another situation the same stim may serve a different purpose. For example in a busy cafe someone might hit their wrists together to manage anxiety, but at home they might hit their wrists together because they are happy.
We encourage everyone to find the right stims for them.