What becomes possible when we stop demanding that every moment lead somewhere predictable?
In this episode of Mindful Mondays, Ashley explores the neurodivergent nuance of play as a powerful state of openness, learning and nervous-system flexibility.
For many neurodivergent adults, life can become tightly organised around prediction, responsibility and holding everything together. Play offers a different atmosphere. The outcome remains open. Mistakes become information. The body is given permission to experiment without needing to perform.
Drawing on ideas from Dr Andrew Huberman, movement specialist Ido Portal and basketball great Kobe Bryant, Ashley explores play as low-stakes possibility, active softness and a doorway into neuroplasticity. She reflects on the healing power of silliness, the surprising intelligence of the subconscious, the freedom of being misunderstood without abandoning yourself - and one deeply judgemental little plushie toy dog.
This week’s Bite-Sized Buddhism considers the balance between strings held too tightly and too loosely, while Microdosing Meaning invites you to make one ordinary moment just five per cent more playful.
The episode closes with Wild and Wise, a guided visualisation bringing together the part of you that creates safety and the part that remains willing to explore, laugh and be surprised.
Perhaps play is what happens when wisdom creates enough safety for wildness to come alive.
The eight-week From Mask to Map group coaching cohort begins on 15 September and is limited to ten people. Details are available at integrativeiom.co.uk.
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