Understanding a shared experience: ADHD & Tranquillity

ADHD x Tranquillity Rings

 

My name is Claire Twomey, and I am a Professional Advanced ADHD Coach based in Ireland. It was my own diagnosis of ADHD in my late 20’s that led me down the path of turning ADHD into a career. I feel privileged to spend my days surrounded by people who experience the world just like I do. Thankfully, after my own journey with ADHD education, learning how my brain works, and giving myself permission to live according to my own rules, my life changed dramatically enabling me to be happy, experience success and fulfilment. 

 

Before I discovered Tranquillity Rings, I was a nail biter, I would pick the skin on my cuticles and I was constantly fidgeting with my fingers. See the before pic for proof. When I was in school, I  spent the whole time doodling on every white space I could find in my books, chewing the lids of my pens, shaking my foot, you name it. I frequently experienced anxiety throughout the day, I would struggle to pay attention in certain environments and quite often I would be overstimulated. 

 

Each and every one of my clients comment on how fidgeting draws unwanted attention to them and usually results in people passing remarks and asking unwanted questions. Although children are typically targeted in marketing for fidget toys, adults also have a need to satisfy their sensory requirements. Those who feel the urge to stim in public places, may not feel comfortable having a fidget on show,  and may find that fidget jewellery is the ideal solution. 

 

Before I tell you about the importance of fidgeting for ADHDers, and how Tranquility Rings can support this, I want to tell you The truth about ADHD!

ADHD, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a common genetic neurodevelopmental condition in which the brain’s neurotransmitter chemicals; norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin do not work properly. The imbalances & low levels for ADHDers can result in a variety of differences and challenges. Norepinephrine is responsible for attention and memory.Dopamine is responsible for motivation and pleasure, and serotonin is for emotional regulation. 

 

It is usually first diagnosed in childhood and often lasts into adulthood. ADHDers experience persistent problems such as difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity and impulsive behaviour when the condition goes without proper identification, treatment and management. This can have long-lasting consequences for an individual such as mental health challenges, low self-esteem and not living to their full potential.

 

ADHD is not a behaviour disorder, a mental illness nor is it a specific learning disability. ADHD is, instead, a developmental impairment of the brain’s self-management system. 

 

I want you to know that ADHDers are extremely talented human beings with many strengths, which often set them apart from Neurotypicals. I believe that the root cause of our suffering is when we are trying to be Neurotypical. 

 

If you would like to know more about ADHD, or complete a survey to determine if you could have ADHD yourself, click here.

 

Fidgeting to Focus

Research says that intentional fidgeting actually supports focus and concentration as it is an effective way to block out distractions, overcome boredom and increase productivity. 

Fidgeting, also known as stimming, is a perfectly natural behaviour for human beings to engage in to cope with high feelings and sensory needs. Stimming is something that everyone does, and you do not need to have been diagnosed with a neurodivergent condition to benefit from it.

 

People who have ADHD frequently require movement or activities with their hands to be able to focus. People with body-focused repetitive behaviours (BFRBs) (such as nail biting, skin picking) engage in these stims which can often be dangerous, to manage their anxiety and stress. The Tranquillity Fidget Rings give ADHDers to fidget in a more healthier capacity. 

 

Using a tool to fidget and create movement helps to 

 

• Stimulate the brain to increase dopamine and norepinephrine.
• Release nervous or excess energy.
• Reduce anxiety.
• Increase relaxation.

 

Fidgeting is also a very valuable support because it enables you to ground yourself and bring you back into the present moment, as an ADHD mind is always wandering 100 steps ahead and going at 100 miles per hour.

 

Why a Fidget Ring?

 

Kids are mainly the target audience for many fidget toys and jewellery pieces and this supports the old narrative that people grow out of ADHD. Science has proven this to be inaccurate. When kids reach the age of 16, 18, or 21, their sensory processing requirements do not miraculously disappear. And adults who have developed anxiety illnesses or recently discovered that they have ADHD have usually spent a lifetime trying to find things to help them live better.

 

There are several different processing modalities we use to help us make sense of our experiences such as new learnings, and interactions with others , information we acquire and how we feel about what happens to us, whether you are in an academic environment or attending a social event. Each modality uses a different part of the brain, and Tranquillity Rings cover 2 of these, Kinesthetic and Tactile, creating movement and touch. You could also argue that it covers a third, bringing spinners (spinner ring users)  into a positive emotional state by reducing anxiety and stress. 

 

I often meet people randomly, who will recognise my rings from Sinead’s collection and acknowledge this. It sparks a conversation of sharing, if they have one themselves, or prompts questions with curiosity followed by a new purchase.  I feel like Tranquility Rings are more socially accepted, because of the great work people are doing to normalise life's many challenges. This gives us ADHDers permission to support ourselves authentically to our needs.

 

The best part about the spinner rings is that they will be with you no matter where you are, they are pretty to look at, are a staple item to accessorise your outfits and are less obvious to those around you!  No matter what you're looking for, one of the Tranquillity collection rings should fulfil all your requirements while also assisting you in maintaining your composure and concentration.

 

Why Tranquillity?

I first came across Tranquillity Rings through Sinéad Hegarty on instagram. She is responsible for creating each of the spinner rings sold at Tranquillity. Sinéad decided to make jewellery that could be used as a fidget by people of all ages and genders. These pieces are beautiful in addition to being functional, making them suited for a wide variety of situations, including those in the professional and social spheres. 

 

Each ring has its own unique name, bringing inspiration and individual messages to help you to redirect your thoughts. The company takes great pride in producing high quality products, fit for purpose in order to support and improve the lives of their clients. Their ethos, values and work ethics are very closely aligned with mine, and I had no hesitation in partnering with them. 

 

Choosing the right Ring for you

Many clients and followers have spoken to me about the overwhelm and decision making challenges they experience when they first visit the website. ‘There are so many beautiful styles to choose from, how do I know what size to get, what if I make the wrong choice’…..I get it and I am here to help you with that!

 

First and foremost, the piece  you pick ought to be something that you genuinely enjoy while also being able to meet your fidgeting needs. Follow my step by step suggestions below to help you manage the process and feel sure about your choice.

 

Choosing Your Ring

• I recommend setting aside some time for yourself to have a first look, without distractions. 
• Over a few days, give yourself some time to think about what you saw.
• Tune into your body and mind, see what comes up when you think about the different designs. 
• Align your current goals/intentions with the specific ring themes.
• Think about the texture/weight/thickness/colour that you like to wear.
• When you find the one that excites you the most, that’s the right one for you. 

 

Sizing Your Ring

• Think about which finger you want the ring on, practice reaching for the ring to fidget, using different fingers and make sure it feels comfortable.
• Measure this finger by either visiting a jewellery store or go off one of your other rings. 
• You can also use the guide TR has put together, they have an amazing highlight saved on their instagram. 
• On each product page, there is an option to ask a question, and the team is so helpful.
• Add your choice to the cart and make your payment. Do NOT stop to overthink it haha. 
• Most importantly, remember that you have time to return the ring, if it doesn’t suit. 

 

As a coach, I am always telling my clients that what is right for me, isn’t always what's right for you, so I recommend picking out the things that appeal to you the most and experiment with various solutions until you discover what works best for you.

 

I can say that I have noticed a very positive impact on my life and how I show up in it, particularly when I've appeared on TV or when trying to sustain focus on big tasks, like writing this blog for your eyes haha. I wouldn't go a day without mine, and I feel like something is missing when I forget to put it on. Which in turn, helps me to remember to put it on!

 

Don’t forget to use the code INTERNALCONNECTIONS at the checkout for 20% off. 

 

I absolutely want you to tag me if you do make a purchase so that I can find out how you got on. 

 

Claire Twomey ACCG | PCC | PCAC

@internalconnections

Professional Advanced ADHD Coach

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