Diamond Moon Sangha

A Sangha for Disabled (Dis) and Neurodiverse (ND) practitioners following the teachings of Ven. Thich Nhat Hanh, Sisters, Brothers and Siblings of Plum Village.

In our Sangha, we embrace a mindful approach to navigating the challenges of disability and neurodiversity, inspired by the teachings of Ven. Thich Nhat Hanh, the Buddha, and the practices of Plum Village.

We understand that pain, whether physical or emotional, is a natural part of life. Through mindfulness, we learn to observe our differences with a gentle and non-judgemental awareness, transforming our relationship with them.

We recognise the interconnectedness of mind and body, and the interbeing nature of our experiences through a “disabled body or neurodiverse lens”.

Interbeing, a term from Thich Nhat Hanh’s teachings, refers to the interconnectedness of all things the understanding, that nothing exists in isolation, and every experience is shaped by countless conditions.

Viewing the world and our experiences through our unique perspectives as disabled and neurodiverse individuals, acknowledging how our bodies and minds interact with the environment and society.

This holistic view helps us to understand and respond to difficulties and pain, as well as to the joys. Enhancing the positives and supporting and working through the challenges of sharing the body and mind, broadening how we relate to our place in the cosmos.

Our Sangha is a space where everyone can practise together, regardless of their diagnosis. We are committed to creating an accessible and supportive environment, where each member feels seen, heard, and valued.

To ensure inclusivity, we offer online meetings with captioning, sensory-friendly spaces, and flexible participation options to accommodate diverse needs, fostering a community of compassion.

The Sangha name ‘Diamond Moon’ refers to the zen guidance of “the finger pointing at the moon” which is a metaphor that illustrates the distinction between teachings (the finger) and the ultimate reality or truth (the moon) they point to. The diamond’s facets illustrating the various aspects of ND and Dis lived experience.”