The goal of this seminar is to facilitate a holistic vision of health and healing through an understanding of society’s influences. This is a weekly seminar that provides the opportunity for students to study some of the healing traditions used in Latin America [Costa Rica and Ecuador used as examples], while also reflecting about their own cultural traits on the subject. The seminar provides a basic understanding of different holistic healing approaches used in the region with an emphasis on the study of medicinal plants as well as indigenous ways of healing. Basic theory about holistic health is reviewed. Holistic healing and allopathic medicine, traditionally opponents, are studied under the light of the current integrative experiences in Latin America. During a two-week field trip to Ecuador, students visit indigenous communities and health integrated projects. Small field trips in Costa Rica also contribute to the understanding of folk medicine in urban areas.
Contact hours: 45 in class and in the field.