Homeostatic Sensory Reset Hypothesis Worksheet

Sensory Modulation Brisbane has developed a worksheet (including a fillable option) to support structured application of the Homeostatic Sensory Reset Hypothesis. The worksheet includes practical considerations to guide the safe selection and use of gustatory input within everyday contexts. The worksheet includes prompts addressing practical considerations, FODMAP requirements, oral care, and intended use of the strategy.

What would I like to trial this strategy for?
Options may include flashbacks, functional seizures, feeling disconnected, dissociated, “spacy”, anger, anxiety, or panic symptoms.

Choosing a pungent taste on a FODMAP diet

People following a FODMAP diet may need to select a pungent taste that aligns with their dietary requirements. Consult a doctor or dietitian for individualised advice.

• Plain pickles (check label for no garlic/onion)
• Apple cider vinegar
• Other plain vinegars (white, rice, malt)
• Lemon/lime/chilli (fresh or dried; small amounts)
• Wasabi (real wasabi powder; check for added garlic)
• Mustard (plain varieties without garlic)
• Mint, ginger
• Tonic water (small serves; check for high fructose corn syrup if from outside Australia)
• Not swallowing is an option

Choosing & considering your teeth
Oral health should be considered, particularly if this strategy is likely to be used regularly. Options selected for frequent use should differ from occasional use.

• Rinse your mouth afterwards
• Consult your dentist for individualised advice
• Consider mouthwash or toothpaste
Generally lower in sugar and less acidic:
• Mint (fresh leaves)
• Ginger (fresh, not candied)
• Mustard (small amounts; non-sugary varieties)
• Wasabi (small amounts)
• Plain pickles occasionally (rinse after)

Choosing & considering flavour intensity
• Disliking a particular flavour is acceptable
• Flavour should be noticeable but not overwhelming, distressing, or associated with negative experiences
• Trial a less intense option if needed
• May be used if sensory sensitive

Practical considerations
Use of any strategy requires consideration of practical factors.
• Where will I need to use it?
• Does it require refrigeration?
• What do I already have available?
• How will I carry it?
Cost

For more information refer to:
O’Sullivan, J., Fitzgibbon, C., Carrive, P., & Kozlowska, K. (2026). Pickle juice – and other pungent foods – as a grounding strategy for managing episodes of dissociative shutdown. Human Systems: Therapy, Culture and Attachments, 0(0). https://doi.org/10.1177/26344041251411521

The Role of Bubble Columns in Sensory Rooms for Adults: Are They Childlike or Therapeutic?

The Role of Bubble Columns in Sensory Rooms for Adults: Are They Childlike or Therapeutic?

Sensory rooms are used  as spaced for calming and reducing distress in mental health units, schools, nursing homes,  shopping centres, sports venues and other community spaces. These rooms are designed to support sensory modulation through calming sensory input such as  lighting, textures, sounds, and visual input. One common feature of these rooms, however, raises an important question: the use of bubble columns. These visually appealing, colourful, water-filled tubes are often seen in sensory rooms, but are they still serving their intended purpose, or are they unintentionally reinforcing a sense of infantilisation for adults?

A recent study on the design of sensory spaces for autistic adults shed light on the discomfort some feel when faced with “childlike” décor in spaces that are supposed to offer respite. One participant’s comment stood out: “Make it feel relevant to us autistic adults and not belittling with childlike decorations and décor.” This sentiment points to an issue that has been largely underexplored: Do bubble columns and similar elements unintentionally undermine the autonomy and dignity of adults?

The use of sensory rooms also varies between genders. Studies on psychiatric units have found that females used the sensory room more frequently than males. This pattern has been observed in both adolescent and adult psychiatric populations, where females consistently report higher engagement with sensory interventions compared to males (Novak et al., 2012;  McCabe, et al., 2025). While both genders report similar levels of distress reduction following sensory room use, males are often less inclined to engage with these spaces. Novak et al (2012)  advised that “Further work is required to ensure that the resources in the sensory room are appropriate for males and that staff are educated about the usefulness of the room for both males and females.” The sensory room features such as bubble columns may be an important resource to research further to identify if it is a factor in some people preferring not to use the sensory rooms. 

 The Bubble Column: Therapeutic Tool or Overly Infantilising?

Bubble columns have long been used in sensory rooms, primarily due to their calming effect. The slow, mesmerizing rise of bubbles, combined with gentle light displays, can help regulate sensory input, providing a soothing experience for many individuals. These columns are often praised for their ability to offer sensory stimulation in a controlled and predictable manner. However, their design—vibrant, brightly coloured, and somewhat whimsical—tends to evoke a sense of playfulness or even childishness.

For children, this may be fitting. Sensory rooms designed for young individuals frequently incorporate playful, engaging elements meant to spark curiosity and excitement. But when we apply these same designs to environments intended for adults—particularly autistic adults who may already feel marginalized or misunderstood—the question arises: Are we perpetuating a sense of infantilization?

Adults have specific needs and challenges that differ from those of children. They may seek sensory regulation or relief, but the environmental cues that work for them could be vastly different from those that appeal to children. In this context, bubble columns might feel out of place, especially if they evoke memories of childhood experiences or suggest that the space was not truly designed for adult needs.

The Desire for Relevant Design

When the participants in the aforementioned research called for spaces that felt relevant to them as autistic adults, they were asking for an environment that respects their maturity and individuality. We have heard similar comments from other adults that appreciate the sensory rooms for reducing distress and inducing calm but express that some design features do not reflect their adult experiences or needs.

For many individuals, sensory modulation is about finding comfort and relief, not necessarily about engaging with childish décor. Instead of bubble columns, perhaps sensory rooms for adults could be consulted regarding design considerations such as more neutral tones, dimmer lights, minimalistic elements, or even nature-inspired designs that encourage calm without feeling infantilising.

A Call for More Research

Is it time to reconsider the use of bubble columns in sensory rooms for adults? Absolutely. While these columns may offer therapeutic benefits, they should not be the default solution for all sensory spaces. More research is needed to understand the specific preferences of adults when it comes to sensory modulation and room design. This includes exploring whether certain designs, like bubble columns, are seen as infantilising or, conversely, if they truly enhance the sensory experience for adults.

There is also a need for more inclusive design practices that involve autistic adults, sensory room users and adults with mental illness in the conversation about what works for them.

Conclusion

The use of bubble columns in sensory rooms for adults is a topic that warrants deeper consideration. While they are effective for sensory modulation, they need to be designed carefully to meet the needs of adult user. As we continue to develop sensory spaces that are truly inclusive, it's crucial to involve adults in the conversation and ensure that these spaces are designed to meet their unique needs and preferences, free from assumptions or outdated notions of what feels therapeutic.

Ultimately, the goal should be to create sensory rooms that empower and support individuals in a way that feels dignified and relevant to their experiences—not just for children, but for adults too.

References

 McCabe, C,   Newbutt, N,  Hutchinson, A,  and Loetscher T. (2025) Insights into Sensory and Relaxation Preferences to Inform the Design of Calming Spaces and Sensory Rooms for Autistic Adults Autism in Adulthood 0 0:0

West, M., Melvin, G., McNamara, F. and Gordon, M. (2017), An evaluation of the use and efficacy of a sensory room within an adolescent psychiatric inpatient unit. Aust Occup Ther J, 64: 253-263. https://doi.org/10.1111/1440-1630.12358

Novak, T., Scanlan, J., McCaul, N., MacDonald, N. & Clarke, T.(2012). Pilot study of a sensory room in an acute psychiatric unit.Australasian Psychiatry, 20, 401–406, doi:10.1177/1039856212459585

Sutton, D., Wilson, M., Van Kessel, K. & Vanderpyl, J. (2013).Optomizing arousal to manage aggression: A pilot study of sen-sory modulation. International Journal of Health Nursing, 22, 500–511, doi:10.1111/inm.12010