Neurodiversity-Inclusive Mindfulness Meditation

Neurodiversity-Inclusive Mindfulness Meditation

8-week mindfulness meditation drop-in series featuring adaptations for all neurotypes.

By Kate Arms

Location

Online

Refund Policy

Contact the organizer to request a refund.

About this event

Mindfulness and meditation are often suggested as a tool for managing stress, anxiety, and the challenges of neurodiversity, but not all classes are accessible or helpful. This class is designed to provide options for practice and tools for assessing which practices are beneficial for you.

You'll learn about and explore a variety of mindfulness meditation techniques. You will be supported in uncovering the methods best suited to your individual needs. There will be opportunities as part of each class to discuss whatever you encounter.

This inclusive event welcomes participants of all nationalities, religions, sexes, races, genders, neurotypes, abilities, and levels, from absolute beginners to seasoned practitioners.


Format

Each class will include a 10-20 minute teaching, a 15-20 minute mindfulness practice, and a Q&A session.

We will meet on Zoom


8 sessions -- Come to as few or as many as you like

Teaching Topics:

April 20, 2024: Mindfulness of the Breath

April 27, 2024: Mindfulness of the Body

May 4, 2024: Mindfulness of Emotions

May 11, 2024: Mindfulness of Thoughts

May 18, 2024: Loving-Kindness and Compassion

May 25, 2024: Working Mindfully with Pain or Discomfort

June 1, 2024: Cultivating Happiness and Joy

June 8, 2024: Common Challenges in Mindfulness Meditation


Your Instructor: Kate Arms

Kate is a trauma-sensitive mindfulness practitioner with 35 years of personal meditation practice in a variety of traditions. She has taught mindful movement practices for over 2 decades and has been leading sitting meditation groups for 4 years. She is currently deepening her teaching by studying mindfulness teaching with Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach and Advanced Trauma-Sensitive Mindfulness with David Treleaven.


This class is being offered on a donation basis. You will be given an additional opportunity to support Kate's work with a donation at the end of each session.

Frequently asked questions

What is mindfulness meditation, and how is it different from other types of meditation?

Mindfulness meditation is a practice that cultivates compassionate present-moment awareness without judgment. It involves paying attention to your thoughts, feelings, and sensations. It can be easily modified to accommodate everybody.

Do I need any special equipment or space to meditate?

No special equipment is required. Find a quiet and comfortable space where you won't be disturbed. A cushion or chair can enhance your comfort, but it's not necessary.

Can I meditate lying down, or does it have to be done in a specific posture?

While sitting is a traditional posture, you can meditate in any position that allows alertness and relaxation. If lying down, be mindful of not drifting into sleep. Part of the class is experimenting and finding what works best for you.

Do I need to have my camera on?

You do not need to have your camera on. Many people find it easier to feel connected to the other students in class if they can see people, so you might turn your camera as part of building a sense of community.

How is this class Neurodiversity-Inclusive?

Each class will include a variety of options for practice, modifications, and adaptations to make them more accessible for the widest possible variety of people. We will discuss why some practices might not be beneficial for some neruodivergent people. Students are invited to explore and adapt.

Is there a minimum donation?

No. While every donation is appreciated, no donation is required to participate.

How will donations be spent?

All donations will be given to Kate Arms in gratitude and appreciation of her time.

How will I get the Zoom link?

The Zoom link will be included in your registration confirmation email and all reminder emails.

Is it the same Zoom link for all 8 sessions?

Yes, it will be the same link for all 8 sessions.

Is mindfulness meditation a religious practice?

No, mindfulness meditation is a secular practice focused on cultivating kind awareness and presence. It can be integrated into various belief systems or followed independently of any religious affiliation.

I've heard about mindfulness benefits for stress. How long before I notice any changes?

Results vary, but many people report feeling calmer after a few weeks of consistent practice. Mindfulness is a skill that develops over time, leading to a more peaceful and centered way of living. During the class, be prepared to experiment to discover which techniques help you relax most deeply.

Organized by

Kate Arms is a trauma-sensitive mindfulness practitioner. She studies meditation teaching with Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield. She has been a professional coach for over a decade and has been mentoring and teaching coaching since 2016. From the very beginning, her coaching practice has incorporated trauma-sensitive, embodied practices and mindful movement. Her coaching work combines deep experience in the psychology of neurodiversity & collective innovation. She offers individual coaching and organizational coaching with a focus on culture-building and designing systems to support adaptive change that sticks She has trauma-informed training with specific focuses in improvisational dance and mindfulness.

Free