with John-Michael Spangler and Denielle Rose
hosted by Maryn Spangler
About This Webinar
Join neurodiversity specialists John-Michael Spangler and Denielle Rose in an exploration of the intersection between neurodiversity and spirituality. This webinar unveils the unique contributions of individuals with diverse neurological profiles to our spiritual understanding.
We'll explore how different ways of thinking and experiencing can offer distinct perspectives on spiritual connection and practice. Learn to appreciate these diverse ways of relating to spirit and cultivate a more holistic and inclusive approach to your spiritual journey.
Description
Many people experience a deep, intuitive connection to the spiritual, a sense of belonging that transcends words. Yet, the ways we experience and articulate this connection can be as diverse as the languages we speak.
Traditional approaches to spirituality often emphasize singular ways of knowing and interacting with spirit, potentially overlooking the unique strengths and perspectives of individuals with neurological differences. This can lead to a feeling of being on the periphery, of not quite fitting into established frameworks for spiritual practice. For example, someone with an ADHD experience might find that quiet, seated meditation feels restrictive and unproductive, while a walk in nature allows them to achieve a similar state of mindfulness and connection. Or, consider someone with aphantasia, a "blind mind's eye," who may struggle with guided visualization exercises that are central to some spiritual traditions, but who resonates deeply with metaphorical language and symbolic representation. This webinar offers a different approach, rooted in a belief in the inherent worth of each individual and the world.
In our time together, we will explore how the diversity of human minds enriches our spiritual ecology. This webinar is designed for individuals seeking to understand and articulate their unique connection to spirit, as well as for those interested in broadening their perspectives and fostering inclusivity within spiritual communities. By recognizing and valuing diverse neuroprocessing styles, we can unlock more personalized and effective approaches to spiritual practice, deepen our understanding of spirituality, and cultivate a more holistic and inclusive understanding of our place within the subtle worlds.
Our discussion will include:
Neurodiversity and Spirituality: We'll explore how a belief in inherent worth resonates with the principles of neurodiversity.
Diverse Ways of Experiencing Spirituality: We'll examine how individuals with varying neurological profiles engage with spiritual practices, and discover alternative pathways to connect with spirit.
Neurological Variation and Spiritual Practice: We'll discuss how different cognitive and sensory styles can be channeled into dynamic and engaged spiritual practices, fostering a unique connection to the divine.
Unique Contributions to Spiritual Understanding: We'll explore how individuals with neurological differences often exhibit unique strengths and perspectives that contribute valuable insights into spiritual understanding
Building Inclusive Spiritual Communities: We will discuss practical strategies for creating welcoming and supportive spiritual communities that honor and value the contributions of individuals with diverse neurological profiles, fostering a sense of belonging and connection for all.
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JOIN US!
Saturday, May 17 - 9:00 - 10:30 am Pacific
This is an interactive webinar with opportunities for questions and sharing (via chat or microphone, depending on comfort level), active engagement through listening, reflecting on personal experiences, and optional participation in discussions.
Additional resources on spirituality and neurodiversity may be shared after the webinar.
Join our free Exploratory Webinars to learn more about Incarnational Spirituality. There’s no better way to get a feel for our classes.
If you can not make it, all Exploratory Webinars are recorded. The audio recording will be posted here after the webinar.
John-Michael Spangler
John-Michael Spangler is a dedicated mental health professional with over 20 years of experience in the field of neurodiversity and social/emotional development. He is a licensed mental health counselor in Washington State and shares his expertise as an affiliate professor at Antioch University Seattle's Masters in Counseling program. John-Michael’s clinical work is centered around supporting neurodivergence and fostering developmental well-being. He is recognized for his compassionate approach and deep understanding within the field of neurodiversity and social/emotional development. He aims to cultivate supportive systems that bring awareness to the diversity naturally present in the breadth of human experience.
John-Michael and Denielle work and collaborate together as Puget Sound Neurodiversity to build neurodiversity-affirming identity, family, and social systems through therapy, coaching, and workshops.
Denielle Rose
Denielle Rose (she/they) was professionally identified as autistic and ADHD later in life. Denielle is a Ph.D. Candidate in Critical Psychology at Point Park University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She is also a Neurodiversity Workplace Coach at Neurodiversity in the Workplace. As a professional in the emerging field of Neurodiversity Studies, Denielle hopes to spread an appreciation of neurodiversity, work towards an equitable and accessible world, and impact her communities with lovingness, compassion, inclusion, and support as tools of social justice.
Your Host, Maryn Spangler
Born and raised in the Lorian community, Maryn weaves an ingrained Incarnational Spirituality perspective with a decade of study and practice in the fields of mental, emotional and physical healing. She is passionate about spirituality, metaphysics and personal growth, and writes the publication Love Walks Here. Maryn lives in Western Washington, surrounded by beloved family and community. She delights in all things cozy, and her favorite thing is to curl up with a cup of tea and a romance novel.
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