This course will provide an intellectual and experiential introduction to the philosophies and practices of integrative medicine and its emphasis on the psychological and spiritual dimensions of Whole System Theories. Topics include the following: mindful awareness, self-care, and conventional and complementary approaches to health and healing (chiefly arising from Tibetan Buddhism) in both traditional and contemporary practices.
This course will be an opportunity for students to delve into the theory and practice of mindfulness and compassion in action. This course will cover healthy ways to deal with stress and daily human problems that are a normal part of life. It will also inform students on how to deal with disruptive crises across the lifecycle.
As an integrative health learning community, we examine the contributions of contemporary Buddhism to whole system well-being. For example, as Western neuroscience seeks to understand how meditation “works,” we look at the evidence and debate as to what extent this scrutiny may validate the merits of meditation practice. Alternatively, how might scientific methodological explanations of meditation undermine the spiritual significance attributed to it? How do these studies make sense in light of modern psychology?
Students will learn about emotions as measures and evidence of “mind-body connection.” Under stress, anxiety, or crisis, human bodies signal that something is not right. For example, people might develop high blood pressure or a stomach ulcer after a particularly stressful event, such as the death of a loved one. Poor emotional health can weaken the body’s immune system. This may create immune system vulnerabilities that create conditions where one is more likely to get colds and other infections during emotionally challenging times. Furthermore, when one feels stressed, anxious, or upset, care of one’s overall health and well-being may not be optimal. Under stress, one may not exercise, eat nutritious foods, or take prescribed medication. They may develop an over-reliance on alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs.
Students will learn about mindfulness and compassion training at the individual level as well as how cultures and communities can use these practices. The course will provide training in mindfulness and compassion as everyday support in recovery from life’s frustrations.
