My Friend Autism Buddhist Principles for Autistic People
Feb 26, 2026
A lively exploration of Buddhist ideas reframed as practical tools for autistic living. Topics include reframing meltdowns as natural, using impermanence to cope with change, and embracing no fixed self to accept different identities. Learn mindfulness as an early warning system, practice letting go of rigid control, cultivate self‑compassion, and seek a balanced middle way to avoid burnout.
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Discomfort Is Part Of Being Human
- Dukkha reframes discomfort as an inherent part of being human rather than a personal failing.
- Orion Kelly says meltdowns, shutdowns and sensory overloads are natural human experiences, not evidence that you're broken.
Using Silence As A Processing Tool
- Orion uses intentional 'gaps' or silence in the podcast to mirror how pauses aid autistic processing.
- He contrasts radio 'dead air' stigma with the value of silence for thinking and emotional processing.
Use Impermanence To Ride Out Overwhelm
- Use impermanence to remind yourself that no feeling or event lasts forever when anxiety or sensory overwhelm spikes.
- Orion describes repeating 'impermanence' during medical procedures and ruminations to tolerate discomfort until it passes.