DAY 2 : Michael Yellowbird — The Science of Traditional Indigenous Contemplative Practices
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In this presentation, Dr. Yellow Bird discusses his work in neurodecolonization and its importance to Indigenous social work practice. The talk will share how findings from neuroscientific, genetic, movement, circadian, and microbiome research, and mindfulness and traditional Indigenous contemplative approaches, can be implemented to address the pernicious consequences of colonization. He discusses how culture, traumatic colonization experiences, and perceptions shape our brain’s plasticity; affect our DNA, our microbiome, the expression of our genes; change brain waves and shape specialized brain cells such as mirror neurons; and alter our neurotransmitters and modulators. He will share how specific traditional practices of Indigenous Peoples can decolonize and heal.https://www.zerotothree.org/resources/3715-perspectives-defunding-mindfulness-while-we-sit-on-our-cushions-systemic-racism-runs-rampantFind Michael on Facebook
Michael Yellow Bird is a Professor of Sociology and the Director of Tribal and Indigenous Peoples Studies at North Dakota State University. He is an enrolled member of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara tribes from North Dakota.
