This course focuses on meditation and mindfulness practices from their religious origins in Buddhism to scientific studies and clinical applications in the West. This experimental course analyzes the cultural uses of meditation alongside theory and research in the field of mindfulness and the emerging sciences and practices in behavioral medicine, psychology and neuroscience. Special focus will be on the principles of mainstream religiously derived practices, applied creative reflective activities involving art, and Western therapeutic practices like MBSR, MBCT, and others. We will learn strategies to skillfully work with thoughts, emotions and sensations, while developing the capacity to enhance mind-body awareness. Requirements met: Humanities Breadth, Global Diversity, and Applied Learning Experience