Jess,
The Sensory Diet is not a food diet. It is a regimen of input into your senses. Some people need different things, different sensations. Just like some people do well with fish oil and seafood and it is toxic to others.
Totoro gave a description but PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do not try it until a professional has shown you how to do it properly for your child.
It also does more than desensitizing skin. It truly helps reprogram the brain to handle ALL kinds of stimulation. I have read the reasons why, as far as we know, but that part didn't stick in my head.
It is not actually a deep pressure sensation. Deep pressure is usually (to my knowledge) given in other forms, like the blanket burrito. Brushing is firm, so that it does not tickle, but it is not hard. It can be done over or under clothes. My little guy would strip anywhere and everywhere for a brushing. Tried to strip for brushing in the Occupational Therapist (OT)'s office, had us both laughing.
Some parts of the body should NOT NOT NOT be brushed. The stomach/abdomen is one. It can cause harm to brush there.
The joint compressions need professional training also, otherwise you could damage joints.
Ok. I just read that you have been shown how to do this. Did they give you the brush? Our Occupational Therapist (OT), knowing that we can't get to her for regular therapy - over an hour and just TOOOOO much for my guy to handle on the drive-gave me the name of the place they buy their sensory brushes. And boy, the first one we bought at a specialty place like a drugstore for Occupational Therapist (OT) and PT was $7. I got 6 of htem for about $11 at this website the Occupational Therapist (OT) gave me. BIG help.
It does help my older two. They enjoy hte sensation and I notice more confidence, more being at ease with themselves when I brush them regularly. And they are more willing to try new foods - a big WOW for us.
Good luck,
Susie
ps. If you want the website for the Occupational Therapist (OT) stuff, PM me. I will say that some of the things in hte Party stores, like the different balls, and the itty bitty clothespins are much cheaper than the same from any therapy supply place.