Reimagining the Body

How can interdisciplinary knowledge of world medical systems, integrative health practices, and emotional intelligence catalyze a culture of health and wellbeing in individuals, schools, communities, and diverse cultures? How can this knowledge be cultivated to align with the rhythms and cycles of nature?

This interdisciplinary program will explore how the human body is imagined by Eastern and Western cultures, and how we can re-imagine the body to improve health and to have a greater sense of well-being. Specifically, we will explore how world medical systems including Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Ayurveda from India conceptualize energy and health in human body, soul, and spirit. In particular, we will study body systems and examine ways in which the body was imagined in Western scientific illustration and in Chinese alchemical images. We will look at major organs and body systems from physical, physiological, and spiritual perspectives, practice art illustration, and explore new ways of understanding and representing the interdependent work of a healthy body. We will look at how health care practices can integrate interdisciplinary knowledge and focus on prevention, wellness, beauty, and thriving.

This program will be collaborating with international universities in China, India, and Vietnam to develop cross-cultural projects on health, education, and culture. Please note that due to differences in time zones, we may have some meeting times during the evenings and on weekends.

Students will have an opportunity to learn in many different ways including working with multiple intelligences and mindfulness practices. We will integrate somatic learning into our studies, including movement, Qigong (a Chinese system of physical exercises and breathing control), and visual art workshops. Students will participate in seminars, writing assignments, and study of important received texts.