Course Descprition
This course is an exploration of the theoretical and practical aspects of the concept of Mind and Body in Chinese religious traditions. We will examine the significance of Mind and Body in Confucianism, Daoism, and Mahayana Buddhism from historical, physiological, psychological, and religious perspectives and their impact on social experiences and popular cutlure.
This class will also have some hands-on experiences, such as the Daoist-rooted practice of Qigong and Tai-chi and the Buddhist-based practices of seated and moving meditation. The class will also study acupuncture, traditional herbal medicine, and Daoist longevity. The class will analyze contemporary responses to traditional representations of spiritual, sexual and social issues through close readings of various original texts, particularly from the Buddhist and Daoist traditions.