Accessibility

A sensory map, displayed on a pink brick wall, with various icons and notes guiding sensory experiences, including heat panels, fans, and tactile objects.

What does ‘neuro-affirming’ mean?

At Zenly, neuro-affirming means we respect and value different ways of thinking, feeling, communicating, and processing. We’ve designed our space with accessibility, choice, and consent in mind, and we welcome different sensory, communication, and movement needs.

We also talk about neurodivergence openly at Zenly. We keep it front of mind and encourage people to self-advocate. Anyone can come to Zenly—it’s not about shutting people out, but about bringing all people together without pressure to mask, and with space to regulate, rest, and participate in ways that feel sustainable.

We know that no environment works perfectly for every nervous system. Our goal is not perfection; it’s creating a space where you have options, autonomy, and support to make choices that help you participate in the way that works best for you.

Arrival Tool

“Not speaking” stickers, with staff trained to support non-speaking participation

Neurodivergent teachers with lived experience

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Low lighting throughout the studio
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Low sensory classes (lower lighting, no mirrors, and soft music only) and high sensory classes (louder music and more stimulation)

The option to wear headphones or earplugs during any class

A quiet corner you can retreat to at any time

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Support workers are always welcome
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A sensory map of the Green Room
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Sensory swings
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Stim toys, weighted blankets, and earmuffs

The option to bring your own sensory supports into the Green Room

The freedom to step out of a class whenever you need

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Onsite peer support groups
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At Zenly, you have options

Black hoodie hanging on a hanger against a red wall with text 'Your Sensory Haven Zenly Sydney's first neuro-affirming studio' printed on it.

Self advocacy at Zenly

Self-advocacy is central to our neuro-affirming approach. We encourage people to name their needs and make choices that support their wellbeing. You are the expert in your own body, brain and experience, and we trust and respect that here.

Some brains need low sensory classes to feel safe and comfortable.

Some brains need more stimulus -louder music and more activity.

We provide both Low Sensory classes and High Sensory classes.

Make sure you read the class descriptions and have a clear understanding of what to expect.

You can reach out with any questions.

FAQs

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A woman is lying on a bed with pink and tan pillows, covered in a chunky pink blanket, wearing headphones, in a room decorated with pink sheer fabric, fairy lights, and a disco ball hanging from the ceiling.

Zenly Quiet Corner

The QUIET CORNER is our dedicated chill-out zone available to all visitors, before, during and after class. You’ll also find stim toys, ear muffs and other tools on the shelf outside it.

Need more support? Request a tour

A cozy indoor space with red lighting, featuring a red couch with striped pillows, multiple hanging red fabric swings, a green-lit doorway, a bed with pillows, chairs, and various rugs and curtains.

Zenly is wheelchair accessible

We try our best to create a space where you can access the services and skills.

Every individual has different needs, We hope that you feel safe to care for yourself here.

Please note that if you are in a wheelchair there are two ramps down to Zenly that might feel too steep, especially in wet weather. In this instance, we recommend entering the complex via the pedestrian entrance on the corner of Unwins Bridge Road and Bedwin Road.

Arrival Tool

A person lying inside a red fabric hammock in a cozy, dimly lit room with red lighting. They are making a rock and roll hand gesture with their hand and are wearing white sneakers. The room has a pink candle, a small table with a phone, and a chair. There is a woman with long hair and a black shirt standing nearby, smiling. The background includes chairs, books, and a bookshelf, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Interpreters and support workers are welcome

Support workers are welcome to join you at Zenly. They may sit in the Pink Room and be available to support you if you need to step out of class, or they can sit nearby in the Green to provide more direct, hands-on assistance.

Please make your teacher aware of this on the day.

Arrival Tool