Autism and Buddhist practice : how Buddhism can help autistic adults cultivate wellbeing

This series of reflective accounts explores the benefits that Buddhist practice can bring for autistic individuals, and outlines how Dharma teachers, centre directors and meditation group leaders can help ensure sessions are truly autism sensitive. Including a wide range of international contributors discussing aspects of their autistic experience and the impact of Buddhism on their lives, this is a thought-provoking and often moving portrayal of the intersect between the lived experience of autistic people and spiritual practice. The deeply personal accounts of the positive impact Buddhist practices have had on relationships, social interactions, sensory overload, mental health and wellbeing, provide an opportunity to find out more about both Buddhism and the support that it can offer to the autistic community through, for example, personal practice, parenting and special educational provision. Autism and Buddhist Practice Cover Of related interest Title page Copyright Contents Acknowledgements Editor’s Preface Introduction Chris Jarrell 1. How an Encounter with a Buddhist Monk Started My Journey to Wellbeing Louise Woodford 2. ‘Being Peace’ Jessica Woodford 3. Calm in the Eye of the Storm Danielle Hall 4. True Freedom Pete Grella 5. Dharma D’Au Sian Atkins 6. The Triple Jewel Chris Jarrell 7. The Practical Application of the Dharma in Everyday Life Dr Pernille Damore 8. Loving Kindness Ish Tannahill 9. The Five Mindfulness Trainings and How They Help Me to Be Authentically Autistic Dr Lian Beijers (Courageous Connection of the Heart) 10. Buddhism and Parenting Lucy Liu 11. My Classroom is My Sangha Dena Rashkover (Piyadithha) 12. Joining a Sangha Jane Garratt (Prajnanandi) 13. The Challenges of Engaging with Sangha Eleanor Lloyd (Dhiraprabha) 14. Unsocially Social Barry Taylor 15. Community and Wellbeing Joy Tober 16. Reflections Chris Jarrell Contributor Biographies Appendix I: A Short Guide to Autism Sensitive Practice Appendix II: The Five Mindfulness Trainings Appendix III: Autism Organizations and Resources Appendix IV: Buddhist Organizations and Resources Glossary Bibliography Exploring the intersect between autism and Buddhism, including how Buddhism can help autistic individuals develop wellbeing and how the Buddhist community can be more inclusive of autistic people. It discusses how Buddhism can help with relationships, social interactions and sensory issues, anxiety, independence and more.