The international conference “Embodied Cognition and Intersubjectivity in Uncertain Times: Interdisciplinary Frameworks for Contemplative Research and Education” concluded on Sunday, June 23, in Padova. This event was co-organized by the International Society for Contemplative Research, Mind and Life Europe, the University of Padova (Contemplative Studies Program), and the Italian Buddhist Union Research Center.
It was the most significant event of the year worldwide concerning the rigorous study of meditation and related topics. Over 300 participants from all continents attended, with 200 presentations, 90 posters, various workshops, interdisciplinary debates, a deep listening concert, and numerous opportunities to share group contemplative practices from different cultures.
Among the attendees were some leading figures in the field, such as Harold Roth, Eve Eckman, Amy Cohen Varela, Dave Vago, Anne Klein, and Claire Petitmengin.
Contemplative research, a recent interdisciplinary field that includes psychology, neuroscience, philosophy, religious studies, pedagogy, and many other approaches, emerged from these five days stronger than ever. Meditation, beyond being a spiritual practice, can now be considered a scientific subject. This particular research aims to reintegrate the first-person perspective, the phenomenological and subjective view of the meditator, into its methodologies.
With the help of neuroscience, it is now well-established how this practice can benefit psychological well-being and treat various conditions related to stress, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and more. Meditation also helps develop so-called soft skills: those transversal competencies increasingly required in the professional world, such as creativity, problem-solving, teamwork ability, and so on. Meditative practices can improve relationships and, according to some studies presented at the conference, can make a difference in social change by promoting inclusion and integration processes and raising awareness of the delicate challenges involving the relationship between humans and nature. Contrary to what one might think, meditation is not just an individual practice but has a distinctly relational nature. It can be considered a crucial element in bringing people together to address the difficult global challenges humanity is facing today.
There was also discussion about the experimental use of psychedelic substances (like psilocybin or ketamine) in therapeutic contexts, integrating these tools with meditative practice, and the role of artistic creativity and the potential of new technologies like virtual reality and biofeedback in supporting and enhancing these practices.
Finally, contemplative education was a central theme throughout the conference. In particular, there was reflection on the possibilities of developing academic programs aimed at training experts in this field (such as the Postgraduate Program in Contemplative Studies offered by the University of Padova, which hosted the conference). Various ways to integrate methodologies, content, and activities from the world of meditation into school programs at different levels were discussed to help students with learning, socialization, and personal growth. A new international network emerged from these days, which will continue these reflections and connect the various initiatives proposed in the field of contemplative education.
Innovative ideas emerged, valuable collaborations were formed, and the international community had the opportunity to discuss the most crucial and cutting-edge aspects of studies in the field. In summary, the significant role that the contemplative sphere has now assumed in contemporary culture and society became evident. Meditation no longer appears as a practice reserved for a few and tied to specific Eastern religious contexts but as a tool studied, explored, and applied in various contexts (healthcare, corporate, educational, etc.), and as the concrete expression of the sensitivity that unites new generations in facing the complexity of global challenges.
A documentary will be released soon, showcasing these intense days and highlighting the most significant themes in contemporary contemplative research.
