Neurodiverse Musician Wellness

Wellness - Being mindful and healthy while actively working to stay that way      

Musician - Someone who loves, creates, or performs music                              

Neurodiverse - An umbrella term for the many variables of the brain 

The term “neurodiversity” is not a medical classification but rather a broad concept that encompasses individuals with various neurological conditions and those who perceive their cognitive and life processes as different from societal norms. It serves as an inclusive umbrella, encompassing both formal and informal diagnoses, as well as those who identify with its general meaning.

A lot of information will be stated in general use, but it can be useful for numerous conditions that may fall into the neurodiverse umbrella such as:

  • (Dyspraxia) Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)

  • Dyslexia

  • Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) 

  • Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

  • Attention-Deficit/Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD)

What is Under the Umbrella of Neurodiversity?

Alt. Text: A colorful green cartoon umbrella with a black text underside features labels of various disabilities, disorders, and diagnoses that fall under the neurodiversity umbrella. Above the umbrella, curved black text reads, "The Umbrella of Neurodiversity."

What and Why This Site Exists

What defines wellness? Wellness is the practice of engaging in activities that promote long-term well-being. For musicians, maintaining wellness can be challenging amid demanding schedules, heavy workloads, and a culture that often prioritizes relentless effort over self-care. In the larger community of music that may overlook individual needs in favor of a "blood sweat and tears" mentality, prioritizing health and sustainable practices is essential for long-term growth and success.

My goal for this website is to offer an accessible collection of resources and insights on body-mind wellness from the perspective of a neurodiverse musician. The primary focus is to highlight how these methods can support neurodiverse musicians in both their careers and overall well-being. Take what resonates with you, adapt it to your needs, and feel free to share!

Who Is This Website For?

While these resources are presented through a neurodiverse lens, they offer valuable insights for anyone—musicians, teachers, students, performers, composers, and beyond. This website serves as a dynamic, accessible platform that explores movement from a broad neurodiversity-informed perspective.

Whether you're gaining a new way of thinking about movement or discovering approaches that shape how you teach, these resources are designed to be useful to a wide range of individuals. 

Navigating the Challenge of Reconnecting with Your Body

For many neurodivergent individuals, connecting the brain and body can feel overwhelming and exhausting. Some may have grown up experiencing discomfort in their bodies, leading them to disconnect from physical sensations as a coping mechanism—similar to masking in social settings. Others may have experienced trauma that caused them to detach from their bodies for protection and safety. Chronic pain can also contribute to this disconnect.

In many cases, multiple unseen factors may play a role in a neurodivergent musician’s disconnection from their body. While uncovering these reasons can be challenging, it is not always necessary to identify a specific cause to begin the process of reconnection.

Regardless of the reason, it is possible to gently rebuild your connection with your body. Through intentional practice, you can learn to engage with your physical self in a safe, supportive way, allowing for a deeper, more embodied experience while performing.

Alt. Text: An androgynous person smiles while holding a textbook displaying an illustration of the spine, standing beside a hanging skeleton model.