What does it mean to walk a Zen path of mindfulness?

Professor: Tatjana Myoko von Prittwitz und Gaffron

Course Number: HUM 135 B

CRN Number: 10758

Class cap: 18

Credits: 1

Schedule/Location:

 Thurs     1:30 PM - 4:10 PM Resnick A James Center (February 22, 29, March 7, 14)

Distributional Area:

MBV  Meaning, Being and Value

In the first class we will look at traditional Zen monastic training within which the mind is trained to manifest boundless compassion. Scientific research has shown the health benefits of meditation. A 2500 year old tradition has entered widespread mindfulness programs. In the second class we study the Buddhist precepts that are providing the ethical and moral guidelines that have been passed down over the generations. What remains timeless, what are the growing edges of an ancient tradition? In the third class we examine ways for mindfulness to be artistically trained and exercised such as in tea ceremony or the traditional Japanese crafts. Can we find nowadays equivalents that help promote a spirit of care and interconnection? Finally, in our last class, we get inspired by contemporary practitioners that are venturing into new territory in terms of social activism, gender fluidity and unconventional ways to share the Buddhist teachings of mindfulness including a Tokyo bar where monks serve drinks with prayers.