Autistic Somatics

People often understand social masking, but many don’t realize that some of us who are neurodivergent and disabled are also masking pain, fatigue, executive dysfunction, dizziness, sensory overload, and how hard daily functioning really is.

When we live with hEDS and we are AuDHD as well, we may look “fine” while using every ounce of energy to stay regulated, organized, mobile, and responsive to everyone around us. Add comorbidities like POTS, GI issues, migraines, allergies/sensitivities, sleep disruption, and autonomic dysfunction, and the invisible workload becomes even heavier.

For many women and mothers among us, there can be another layer: being expected to keep caregiving no matter how unwell we feel. If our children are also neurodivergent or high-needs, and high chances they are since AuDHD tends to run in families, the sensory and emotional demands may be constant, with little to no chance to recover. Lack of support systems can turn manageable stress into severe burnout.

This kind of chronic burnout can have serious mental health consequences. Many autistic adults know what prolonged exhaustion, isolation, hopelessness, and being misunderstood can feel like. That’s why awareness, accommodations, practical support, and earlier recognition matter so much.

We are not lazy, dramatic, flaky, or unmotivated. We are often carrying so much more than others can see. Severe burnout is often the cost of masking both socially and functionally in a neurotypical, able-bodied world with little or no support.

Your Teacher: Alex has a soothing voice and calming presence people love. A 2019 graduate of a 4-year Feldenkrais® Professional Training Program, she’s demonstrably a skilled and caring practitioner.

“Alex has such an intelligent and gentle manner about her that it was with full confidence that I put myself in her hands.” - Susan

“Alex is skilled with the process and makes it interesting and fun. She also provides outside reading and resources on Feldenkrais which is so helpful!” - Jennifer

“Alex’s classes are very peaceful and there’s no stress or pressure. That quiet hour each class is itself something I treasure.” - Kim

Looking to reduce pain or do more with less effort? Want to level up your dance or martial arts practice? Looking to get out of the house, meet people, and try something new?

We have a very small group of seniors and movement enthusiasts that meets Wednesdays mornings at the Etowah Lions Club for gentle, playful movement classes with real results. Feel connection throughout yourself—feel taller, lighter, easier, happier, and more aligned.

We’d love for you to join us! Questions? Text Alex at (828) 278-8239

Did you know your balance depends on five different systems working together?

Your inner ear helps detect motion, your eyes keep you oriented in space, and your skin, muscles, and joints send signals about pressure and movement. All of that information is processed by your brain and spinal cord to keep you steady and upright.

When even one part of this system is disrupted, it can lead to dizziness, imbalance, or disorientation. That’s why vestibular disorders can feel so overwhelming—they impact the entire balance network.

🔗 Learn more about how your body maintains balance:
https://vestibular.org/article/coping-support/living-with-a-vestibular-disorder/motion-sickness/

✨ Move easier. Feel better. Discover what’s possible. ✨

Awareness Through Movement® Classes
Wednesdays, 10–11am
📍 Etowah Lions Club, 447 Etowah School Rd, Hendersonville, NC
Sept–Dec 2025 (no class Nov 26, Dec 24, Dec 31)

Each class is a guided exploration from the Feldenkrais Method®—a learning process that helps your nervous system re-pattern movement. Students often leave feeling lighter, calmer, and amazed by how small movements can bring big changes.

“I’d been through physical therapy, chiropractic, and even steroid shots with no relief. A simple class with Alex—reaching and trying to move in different ways—gave me relief by the next day.” – Kim

🧘 Bring: a padded blanket or mat (like a moving blanket or folded comforter)
💲 $20/class — sliding scale available (no one turned away)

📅 Reserve your spot: calendly.com/alextoenniges
📱 Questions? Text Alex: (828) 278-8239
🌐 More info: ripplecollectivenc.com/feldenkrais

Try a class and discover how small, mindful movements can create big changes. Your body (and your future self) will thank you.

Less pain. More balance, agility, and freedom. Come learn what your body is capable of.