About Contemplative Practices

Contemplative Practices

Contemplative practices are reflective processes that can help people cultivate insight and awareness of themselves, others, and the world around them. These practices provide opportunities for people to be fully present with their experiences, in the moment, cultivating an intimate connection with the topic or content at hand. While the tree of contemplative practices displays the diversity of these methods, contemplative practices share a common commitment to the cultivation insight, concentration, and reflection. Through the application of contemplative practices, an academic community can be built where participants are more fully present, open to possibilities, and practiced in the skills of emotional intelligence and mindful listening—conditions that support meaningful interaction and dialog between individuals with diverse experiences and backgrounds.