Reimagining the Body: Psychology, Art, and Health

How can interdisciplinary knowledge of world medical systems, integrative health practices and emotional intelligence catalyze a culture of health and wellbeing in individuals, 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, Ayurveda from India, and Japanese Jin Shin Jyutsu conceptualize energy and health in the body, mind and spirit. In particular, we will study body systems and examine ways in which body was imagined in Western scientific illustration and in Chinese alchemical images. We will look at major organs and body systems from physical, psychological, 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 practice is integrating interdisciplinary knowledge with a focus on prevention and wellness in the fields of health psychology.

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

Students will have an opportunity to learn in many ways in diverse modalities, 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), visual art workshops, and integrative health labs. We will participate in community readings, rigorous writing assignments, and critical study of important texts.