Book Review: Flap Your Hands: A Celebration of Stimming by Steve Asbell
I remember the moment I first heard about Flap Your Hands: A Celebration of Stimming by Steve Asbell. I was scrolling through social media, and I stumbled upon a quote that made me pause: “Stimming is not just a difference to be understood, but a self-care to be celebrated.” It hit me like a revelation, especially as a late-diagnosed neurodivergent person who’s navigated the choppy waters of masking behaviors for much of my life. I grabbed the book without hesitation—this was not just another educational text; it promised to change how I viewed something so personal yet oftentimes misunderstood.
Asbell’s writing is a warm embrace, infusing the narrative with personal anecdotes and insights that are as engaging as they are enlightening. The book focuses on stimming—self-stimulatory behaviors often associated with neurodiversity—and digs deep into the myriad ways people express themselves through these actions. If you’ve ever felt the urge to flap your hands or rock back and forth, you’ll find that these behaviors aren’t just quirks; they’re an integral part of who we are, and Asbell makes a compelling case for celebrating them.
One of the most transformative aspects of the book for me was the idea that stimming can be a form of self-care. I’ve spent so much time trying to hide my own behaviors, like picking at my head during moments of anxiety, wrestling with feelings of embarrassment and shame. But Asbell challenges this perspective, suggesting that instead of masking, we should embrace these actions as moments of respite and joy. The narrative flows smoothly, interspersed with heartfelt testimonials from others who have found freedom in embracing their stims.
I particularly appreciated the diverse representations of stimming in this book. Asbell highlights that stimming manifests differently for everyone—what might seem unusual to one person can be a source of comfort and empowerment for another. This openness is refreshing and serves as a reminder of our shared human experience, reinforcing the idea that differences should be celebrated, not hidden.
The pacing of the book is just right; it never feels rushed, allowing readers to digest the profound insights Asbell presents. The conversational tone feels less like a lecture and more like a long chat with a wise friend who clearly understands the nuanced layers of neurodivergence. Memorable quotes, such as “Stimming is not merely a behavior; it is an art form of self-expression,” will stick with you long after you turn the last page.
In conclusion, Flap Your Hands is not just for neurodivergent individuals; it is a gift to everyone—caretakers, friends, educators, and allies. It invites us all to reconsider our preconceived notions about what it means to express ourselves and to celebrate the beautifully diverse tapestry of human behavior. This book has deeply impacted my understanding of stimming, transforming it from a source of shame to one of pride and self-acceptance.
If you want to dive into an empowering read that champions the beauty in our differences, I can’t recommend Flap Your Hands enough. It’s a celebration of self-love, acceptance, and the strength found in our unique expressions of identity. Just like Asbell suggests, let’s start celebrating the self-care that stimming represents—not just for some but for all of us.
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