Flourishing: The Art and Science of a Life Well Lived

What is human flourishing and how do we practice it in an age of hyper-complexity and ever-accelerating pace? You will engage with these questions by studying, discussing, and applying research on the psychological, emotional, and social factors that promote a life well lived.

Learning Objectives

Specifically, you will:

• Understand the core research-based models of human flourishing and well-being
• Develop an integrated flourishing toolkit that can be applied in minutes a day with measurable positive effect
• Apply these mental maps and tools in a structured, yet flexible way to your own

Program Description

What is human flourishing and how do we practice it in an age of hyper-complexity and ever-accelerating pace? You will engage with these two questions by studying, discussing, and applying research on the psychological, emotional, and social factors that promote a life well lived. Models of integrated well-being, meditation, deep-meaning making, and social connection are distilled from fields ranging from interpersonal neurobiology and contemplative neuroscience to positive psychology and applied philosophy.

Any investigation into a concept as rich and diverse as human flourishing necessitates a thoughtful multi-disciplinary approach. As such, graduate students from a wide range of disciplines will find multiple compelling entry points into the investigation of human flourishing. Further, the topic of human flourishing is not amenable to intellectual exploration alone—it must be taken from the abstract into the lived realities of our lives. A mix of lecture and guided practice is utilized to help you move these ideas from concept to lived experience, leading to life transformation.

In sum, we welcome students from all disciplines who are open to exploring ways of thinking that emphasize honest reflection, openness to experience, self awareness, and the courage to act from a space of authenticity. Through a series of hands-on exercises, a range of assessments and lectures + discussions about multiple aspects of flourishing, you can broaden your vision of success and what satisfies you. Additionally, it’s helpful to think of this course less as a traditional class and, instead, more as an applied workshop guided by the following mantra: “Learn, Apply, Transform.”

Learn – Learn the most effective cognitive, emotional, social, and physical strategies that facilitate flourishing and wellness.

Apply – Apply these insights and strategies to your life, your social sphere, and the world around you.

Transform – Transform the way you live and impact the people around you. Live with deeper purpose, enhanced flourishing, greater resilience, and increased lifelong wellness.

Join us on this journey into the heart of human flourishing and how to build a life full of more vitality and well-being.

This Flourishing workshop is adapted specifically for graduate students from Stanford's Wellness Ed curriculum.

If you are not able to commit to this multi-session workshop, check out BeWell to find other campus resources to support your health and well-being.

Details

All graduate students from any School or department, in any degree program or at any stage, are invited. Space is limited. Due to the workshop's interactive format and limited spots, full participation in all sessions is required.

If you are accepted to this workshop you must confirm your place by submitting a Student Participation Fee Agreement, which authorizes VPGE to charge $50 to your Stanford bill – only if you do not fully participate in the event. You will receive a link to the Agreement and instructions if you are offered a place.