2023 Course Overview

Information for the 2024 course is not yet available.

In this two day live virtual or in person conference we embark on a comprehensive exploration of consciousness. Day 1 is dedicated to unraveling the nature of consciousness itself. While mainstream scientific perspectives typically attribute consciousness solely to the activity of the brain, existing models fall short in fully explaining the diverse phenomena associated with conscious experience. Conversely, spiritual traditions propose the brain as a conduit for experiencing consciousness. Together, we will explore consciousness from the lens of various scientific disciplines and examine the challenges and opportunities that these models present in arriving at a deeper understanding of consciousness.

Day 2 of the course shifts the focus to the social impact of conscious leadership and environmental practices. Recognizing the influential role of leaders in shaping society, we will explore leadership qualities that foster inclusivity, vision, and integrity. Additionally, the session will spotlight the profound interdependence of environmental consciousness, overall individual health, and the health of our soil, and discover how they shape our collective well-being.

Throughout this journey, we will have the privilege of learning from world-renowned thought leaders and scientists from various fields presenting their perspectives on these fascinating topics. Join us as we bridge the gap between scientific and spiritual perspectives, paving the way for a more holistic understanding of consciousness and its transformative potential in both personal and societal realms.

Who Should Attend

  • Primary Care Physicians
  • Anesthesiologists
  • Neurologists
  • Psychiatrists
  • Nurses and Residents/Fellows 
  • Psychologists 
  • Researchers
  • Students
  • Anyone interested in consciousness, leadership, environment

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the current views on consciousness in the scientific and spiritual world
  • Practice conscious action as a tool for self-transformation and thereby bring positive change to the society at large

Course Director

Balachundhar Subramaniam, MD, MPH
Ellison C. "Jeep" Pierce Endowed Chair of Anesthesia
Director, Sadhguru Center for a Conscious Planet, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston

View Full Faculty List

Abstract/Poster Submission

The Sadhguru Center for a Conscious planet invites you to submit an abstract for Conference exploring the theme of Consciousness - Science, Spirituality and Social Impact.  

We encourage both those attending in-person and virtually to submit an abstract. Those whose abstracts are accepted will qualify for a reduced registration fee of 250 USD. Please utilize the provided link to submit your abstract: Calling All Conscious Thinkers: Abstract Submission Link 

Types of Abstracts 

Research abstracts based on original research and translational studies, individual case studies or case reports (5 or fewer participants), systematic reviews or meta-analyses. 

We are accepting abstracts for poster-based presentation consideration. This call for abstracts closes on Sept 29, 2023, at 11:59 pm EST. Select outstanding submissions that align with the conference’s theme will be considered for a best poster award.  

  • Topic Areas

    The listed topic areas are provided as suggestions. We welcome all submissions on themes related to the conference.  

    Scientific Understanding of Consciousness: 

    • Exploring the Science of Consciousness 
    • Models of Consciousness 
    • Consciousness and Altered States of Mind 
    • Consciousness and Physics  

    Spiritual Perspectives on Consciousness: 

    • The Intersection of Consciousness and Spirituality 
    • The Philosophy of Consciousness 
    • Mindfulness and Consciousness 

    Social Impact and Consciousness: 

    • Social Implications of Understanding Consciousness 
    • The Role of Conscious Leadership in societal transformation. 
    • The Role of Consciousness in Social Justice and Human Rights Movements 

    Phenomenological Aspects of Consciousness: 

    • Exploring Near-Death Experiences and other Noetic phenomenon 
    • Consciousness and Human Experience 
    • The Role of Consciousness in Personal Transformation and Well-being 

    Environment & Climate Change: 

    • Consciousness and Ecological Awareness 
    • Climate Change and Collective Consciousness 
    • Environmental Mindfulness 
    • Conscious Consumption 

    Keywords: 

    Consciousness, Science, Spirituality, Social Impact, Conscious Leadership, Environmentalism, Altered States of Mind, Meditation, Mindfulness, Sustainability, Ethical Leadership, Collective Consciousness, Environmental Awareness, Physics, Social Justice, Empathy, Well-being, Mind-Body Connection, Personal Transformation, Conscious Consumption, Neuroscientific Advances, Psychedelics, Machine Learning, Perception, Attention, Awareness, Mathematics, Eastern and Western Perspectives, Philosophy, Mental Health, Emotional Resilience, Noetic Phenomenon, Quantum mechanics. 

  • Submission Requirements

    Abstracts MUST include the following information:  

    • Title, authors' names, and affiliated institution(s) 
    • Contact information for presenters 
    • Abstracts are limited to 3,500 characters (including spaces) Should include: Objective, Methods, Outcomes, Conclusion  
    • Abstract reviews are blinded, do not include institution in body or title of the abstract. 
    • No revisions allowed after the submission deadline. No exceptions! 

    Submission Information: 

    • The presenting author must register for the conference by Oct 15, 2023, to secure a spot. Inability to do so will result in removal from the presenter list. 
    • Abstracts must include original data and be based on available data. Statements about future data availability may lead to rejection. 
    • Accepted abstracts will be presented as posters. 
    • The submitting author typically presents the abstract. 
    • Use the link below to submit your abstract.  

    Calling All Conscious Thinkers: Abstract Submission Link   

  • Evaluation

    Submit your best work! Choose the right abstract topic and address all application items carefully. Elevate your chances for the Best Poster Award by submitting exceptional work that aligns with the conference theme. The Scientific Committee will evaluate based on scientific quality, theme representation, format appropriateness, relevance to consciousness science research, and available presentation slots. 

    Terms & Conditions  

    By submitting an abstract, you agree to the following: 

    • Accepted presenters are not compensated and must cover their own expenses. 
    • Presenting authors must register and pay to attend the conference. 
    • Accepted abstracts are eligible for a discounted registration fee of 250 USD. A discount code will be shared via email. 
    • Presenters must follow the schedule and meet the requirements set by the conference committee and the Sadhguru Centre for a Conscious Planet. 
    • Accepted presenters must submit a CME disclosure form before presenting. Failure to do so may result in withdrawal of the abstract. Further details will be provided upon acceptance. 

    Submission Deadline 

    This Call for Abstracts closes on Sept 29, 2023, at 11:59 pm EST. 

    Status Notification 

    Notification of your proposal status will be sent by Oct 15, 2023. Please hold the dates of October 26 - October 27, 2023, until you are notified of the status of your submission. 

    Contact 

    If you have any questions regarding the 2023 Call for Abstracts process, please email sccpconference@bidmc.harvard.edu  

Offered By:

 

  • ABMS/ACGME Competencies

    This course is designed to meet the following American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) / Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Educational (ACGME) competencies:

    • Interpersonal and Communication Skills
    • Patient Care
    • Procedural Skills 

  • IOM Competencies

    This course is designed to meet the following Institute of Medicine Core Competencies:

    • Provide Patient-Centered Care 

Questions?

Please contact the Continuing Education Programs with any questions by email at ceprograms@hms.harvard.edu.