Opening the Mind’s Eye: Contemplative Practice and Higher Education
This Praxis Lab explored the transformative potential of contemplative practices—such as meditation and traditional yoga—in university education and beyond. Students engaged with a diverse range of contemplative traditions, both secular and spiritual, while examining the latest neuroscientific research on their effects on memory, attention, and empathy. As society grapples with deep divisions and growing mental health challenges, this course sought to integrate contemplative approaches into higher education to foster well-being, mindfulness, and a more compassionate academic environment.
Throughout the year, students experienced hands-on contemplative practices, engaged with research on their cognitive and emotional benefits, and studied how universities nationwide are incorporating these methods. Their final project focused on applying contemplative practices to the University of Utah, with potential impacts on classroom learning, mental health, campus wellness, and program development.
Instructors:
Phillip Bimstein
Joseph Metz, PhD
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