Healing the Mind-Body: Biology and Beyond

Description

Western science has traditionally considered the mind and body as separate entities. Recent research indicates that the relationship and interactions between the mind and the body are much more complex and intimate than previously imagined. Considered as a single holistic entity, the human mind-body has an innate capacity for healing that involves complex interactions between the nervous system, immune system, endocrine system, and other physiologic systems. We all know of seemingly miraculous cures that appear inexplicable. How do mental activities and practices transform our experiences of the body? How do they manifest on a physiological level? Research from the last 30 years has revealed abundant details about the remarkable nature of the mind-body, the biological underpinnings of its connections to our past, our social circumstances and our environment, and its capacity for miraculous, seemingly unfathomable change.

In this program, we will explore mind-body medicine from several disciplines and viewpoints. We will begin with a biological approach, investigating the components of the network comprised of the nervous, endocrine and immune systems. We will then explore healing as an underlying intelligence of the body, and as a pathway to wholeness. Students will examine how alternative medicine modalities practiced in the US, including acupuncture, naturopathy, vibrational medicine, and others, as well as other determinants of mind-body health affect our well being. Throughout fall quarter, we’ll study the strengths and shortcomings of approaches such as the scientific method and evidence-based medicine that allow us to assess the foundation for what we believe.

During winter quarter, students will work independently and in small groups to investigate a particular aspect of mind-body healing, which may involve interviews, observations, and practice, as well as research. We’ll also continue our journey by investigating mind-body medicine of non-Western cultures, such as African/Caribbean medicine, Chinese medicine, and Amerindian medicine.

The program will be conducted so as to allow students to study, assimilate, and synthesize their learning though their minds and their bodies. The format will include lectures, seminars, workshops, films, guest lectures, writing exercises, as well as opportunities for practicing mind-body connections through physical experiences including meditation and singing. Students will be expected to incorporate personal observations of their mind-body health as a vehicle for integrating their learning.