The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions.
How can Zen practice be made more inclusive and supportive for neurodivergent individuals? What are the distinct contributions to Zen that neurodivergent people make? How can those who are not neurodivergent better understand and offer meaningful support? This two-hour online event creates a space for deep listening, learning, and conversation about neurodiversity in Zen.
Neurodiversity describes the natural variations in how people think, process, and engage with the world, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other cognitive differences. In the context of Zen practice, it invites us to reflect on how traditional forms intersect with different sensory, cognitive, and communicative needs. By creating practice spaces that honor these differences, we move toward a more inclusive and responsive sangha.
This event will be guided by Anlor Davin, an autistic Soto Zen priest, author of Being Seen, and founder of AutSit, a Zen and mindfulness-based organization that serves autistic and neurodivergent individuals. Diagnosed with autism at age 46 after years of dedicated Zen practice, Anlor’s journey has shaped her commitment to making spiritual practice more accessible. She will share how Zen helped her understand her neurodivergence and discuss ways to navigate practice with sensory and cognitive differences.
She will be joined by Ben Connelly, a Soto Zen priest and author whose work integrates Zen with social engagement. Ben will facilitate a discussion with Anlor, drawing out key aspects of neurodivergent experience in practice spaces, including sensory sensitivities, self-regulation, and how to balance tradition with accessibility.
Following their discussion, we will open the floor to neurodivergent practitioners to share their experiences, offering firsthand insight into the diverse ways people engage with Zen. The event will conclude with a Q&A, where all participants will have the opportunity to explore practical ways to make Zen practice more welcoming and accessible.
Event Highlights:
- Welcome & Introduction
- Anlor Davin: Personal Story & Zen Practice
- Dialogue: Ben Connelly in Conversation with Anlor Davin
- Voices of Neurodivergent Experience: Community Sharing
- Q&A and Discussion
This event welcomes neurodivergent practitioners, allies, and those wishing to better understand how to support diverse ways of practicing. Together, we will reflect on how to create practice spaces that acknowledge the wide spectrum of human experience and make room for all.
Recordings:
All course sessions will be recorded, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
- Sustaining Level: $56
- Member (Become an SFZC Member): $50
- Sliding Scale 1: $34
- Sliding Scale 2: $14
Or call 415-354-0360.