An Introduction to Neurodiversity-Friendly Mindfulness Workshop:

Presented by: Krista Van Iderstine, Occupational Therapist, ADHD Coach & Mindfulness Teacher

This 90 minute interactive workshop offers an introduction to learning about why neurodiversity-friendly adaptations are needed in mindfulness practices. There will be opportunities to try out the various adaptive tools and supports throughout the workshop, including a short guided neurodiversity-friendly mindfulness meditation. The workshop will end with some information and tips for taking some next steps with exploring mindfulness in ways that work for you.

Participants in the workshop will learn:

1. What is neurodiversity-friendly mindfulness?
2. Why neurodivergent adaptations are needed
3. How to adapt mindfulness for neurodivergent needs
4. Next steps for exploring mindfulness in ways that work for you.

Disclaimer:

Please note mindfulness activities, such as mindfulness meditation, can help us to observe ourselves in intentional ways.  This can include noticing unpleasant thoughts, strong emotions, or uncomfortable body sensations.  For some people with pre-existing trauma (such as those diagnosed with PTSD), practicing mindfulness meditation may trigger PTSD-related symptoms like emotional overwhelm.  The short mindfulness activities (including a short mindfulness meditation) that will be explored during this workshop will be taught in a trauma-sensitive manner, although with this group format there will be limited opportunities for 1:1 support from the presenter.  Participants will be advised to stop any of the mindfulness activities if they end up feeling uncomfortable during the workshop, and participants will be able to choose to not participate in any of the activities at any time during the workshop.  If you have any concerns about the information above, please email the workshop organizer(s) and/or connect with the mental health professional(s) you are working with about the advisability of exploring mindfulness meditation in a workshop group format.

To learn more or to register, please connect with us at Get-Work@GatewayAssociation.ca