What happens when neurodivergence meets spirituality?
In this episode of the Holistic Healing Podcast, Luam connects with philosopher and mystic Asher Walden, founder of the Empyrean Project, to explore the intersection of spiritual practice and neurodivergent perception. Asher shares how his journey from Zen monastic life to academic theology led him to create a unique archetype-based card deck that speaks to intuitive and pattern-seeking minds. This conversation offers a deeply inclusive take on spirituality, reminding us that there is no one-size-fits-all path to the divine.
Asher Walden is a mystic, theologian, philosopher, and the founder of the Empyrean Project, a platform dedicated to exploring spiritual frameworks within the neurodivergent community. With a background in Zen Buddhism and a PhD in Systematic Theology, Asher bridges Eastern and Western traditions to create tools for spiritual self-discovery.
Where to find more of Asher:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asher-walden
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empyrean_deck
Episode highlights:(06:52) Journey from Zen to theology
(16:43) How neurodivergent minds process religion
(24:31) Mysticism, intuition, and pattern recognition
(26:52) Meditation styles and sensory profiles
(35:32) How the archetype card deck works
(47:29) Pattern overload and social balance
(52:52) Universal symbols across spiritual traditions
(59:44) Psychedelics and integrating spiritual insight
(1:20:45) Spirituality vs mental health groundwork
(1:29:10) Outro
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