Meditation & Mindfulness

Catalog description

This course provides both a theoretical and experiential-learning focused introduction to meditation and mindfulness practices which developed in Buddhist traditions and have been increasingly applied in a variety of secular contexts. We will consider mindfulness-based approaches used by therapists to address anxiety and depression, as well as those used by medical practitioners to address issues such as pain management, and end-of-life care. We will examine how meditation and mindfulness have been used to increase focus, reduce stress, improve teamwork, creativity and performance in sports, education, business, and the arts. We will also explore how such practices have been implemented to connect communities, promote peace, and heal the trauma of racial injustice. Finally, we will consider how meditation and mindfulness have been misused as forms of "self-help" in the absence of professional care, and the harm that may result when one learns meditation from a book or an app, without the guidance of an experienced teacher. This class will provide such guidance in exercises taught in class, in ongoing feedback on the daily practices students will report and reflect on each week, and in individual and small group discussions. Readings, reflections and class participation are important for gaining insight into the specific historical contexts and practices of meditation and mindfulness we will consider. However, this course especially emphasizes experiential learning. While there are no formal papers or exams, students should note that it is quite challenging. Strict attendance, a willingness to try new things, and a commitment to meditate daily are required. Students will apply what they have learned in the course to a final project based on their own interests