Department Vision

The Traditional Eastern Arts program emphasizes the transmission of traditional body/mind awareness practices handed down from generation to generation—in some cases since ancient times—and in a variety of cultural contexts.

Traditional Eastern Arts courses teach the development and use of internal energy through discipline and practice, while providing the space and training for the integration of body, mind and spirit. Through a foundation of sitting meditation practice, the student develops shamatha (peace) and vipashana (insight), begins to develop maitri (gentleness) toward self and others, and learns to honor life and its traditions in the context of sacred world.

Through two years of intensive practice in one of three core disciplines—T'ai-chi Ch'uan, Aikido or Yoga—students bring the essence of that discipline into alignment with the other areas of life, such as livelihood, health and creative expression. At the same time, they study the philosophy, history and cultural context of their chosen practice.

The Traditional Eastern Arts program trains and encourages students to develop practice and discipline as a way of life.