The goal of this course is to provide an in-depth, accurate understanding of mindfulness, from both an academic and experiential perspective. The history of mindfulness is examined, including its roots in Buddhism, along with the more recent integration of mindfulness practice in Western psychology. The course explores what mindfulness is, common misconceptions about mindfulness and mindfulness meditation, how mindfulness works, and also the qualities and virtues cultivated in mindfulness practice. Both through readings as well as applied practice, the course explores different forms of mindfulness meditation, from present-moment awareness in everyday life and activities, to formal sitting meditation, body awareness, walking meditation, loving-kindness meditation, and movement-based meditations including qi gong. Throughout, the course is grounded in an exploration into the science and neuroscience of mindfulness, including research evidence on the effects of mindfulness practice and mindfulness-based interventions on the brain, immune system, physiological stress reactivity, and overall physical and psychological health. Along the way, the course addresses important questions about the self and the mind, through the lenses of philosophy, psychology, and contemporary neuroscience. These questions include: Is there such a thing as a self? Is there such a thing as a mind, which is separate from the brain? And if so, how are the mind and brain related?
