De-Mystifying Mindfulness Coursera

Overview

The De-Mystifying Mindfulness course offered by Coursera in partnership with Universiteit Leiden aims to provide a responsible, comprehensive, and inclusive education about (and in) mindfulness as a contemporary phenomenon.

Key facts

• Interest in meditation, mindfulness, and contemplation has grown exponentially in recent years.  Rather than being seen as mystical practices from ancient Buddhism or esoteric philosophy, they are increasingly seen as technologies rooted in evidence from psychology and neuroscience.  

• Mindfulness has become the basis for numerous therapeutic interventions, both as a treatment in healthcare and as a means of enhancing well-being and happiness.  For millions around the world, mindfulness has become a life-style choice, enhancing and enriching everyday experience. Mindfulness is big business.

• But, what actually is mindfulness?  Is it really good for you?  Can anyone learn it?  How can you recognize charlatans? Would you want to live in a mindful society, and would it smell like sandalwood?  What does it feel like to be mindful?  Are you mindful already, and how would you know?

What you will learn

• Understand popular conceptions and misconceptions about Mindfulness

• Interpret your own experiences of Mindfulness practices

• Evaluate the social and political significance of Mindfulness

• Compare different psychological and therapeutic approaches to mindfulness