Microprogram Psychedelics and Spirituality Studies

The University of Ottawa offers a unique microprogram in Psychedelics & Spirituality Studies, designed to explore the rich and multifaceted world of plant medicines and their influence on human consciousness.

  • 200 Enrolled
  • University
  • Last updated Mar '23
  • English
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Course Description

The University of Ottawa offers a unique microprogram in Psychedelics & Spirituality Studies, designed to explore the rich and multifaceted world of plant medicines and their influence on human consciousness. This interdisciplinary program bridges the gap between Religion, Psychology, Anthropology, and Health, creating a comprehensive understanding of the spiritual, ritual, and therapeutic uses of psychedelics across cultures and throughout history.

For centuries, plant medicines have played a crucial role in human spirituality, rituals, and well-being, fostering feelings of empathy, gratitude, and insight. In recent years, these powerful substances have sparked renewed scientific interest, prompting further investigation into their potential applications and impacts on society.

The microprogram consists of 9 course units, which are divided into three compulsory courses:

  1. SRS 5108 - Psychedelics: Interdisciplinary Survey of Psychedelic Studies (3 Units): This foundational course offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the history, cultural significance, and therapeutic potential of psychedelic substances. Students will delve into the diverse ways in which these substances have been utilized across cultures and time periods.
  2. SRS 5109 - Psychedelics, Politics, and Harm Reduction (3 Units): This course examines the intersection of psychedelics with politics, public policy, and harm reduction efforts. Students will analyze the legal, ethical, and social issues surrounding the use of psychedelics, exploring ways to minimize harm and promote responsible consumption.
  3. SRS 5110 - Sacred Plant Medicines and Spirituality (3 Units): Focusing on the spiritual aspects of plant medicines, this course delves into the religious and mystical experiences associated with their use. Students will gain insight into the role of plant medicines in various spiritual traditions, their potential for personal transformation, and their implications for understanding the nature of consciousness.

By engaging in this microprogram, students will develop a nuanced understanding of the complex relationship between psychedelics, spirituality, and society. Graduates will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing conversation about the role of plant medicines in human culture and wellbeing.

You will learn:

  • What is Bwiti?
  • Roles in Bwiti initiation/treatment
  • Instruments in Bwiti: ngombe, mogongo
  • What is an Nganga
    • Maboundi/Yombo
    • Maboundi/Yombo
  • Sustainability/reciprocity

You will learn:

  • History of the Fang tradition
  • Dissumba vs. Dissumba Fang
  • Ombwiri/Mbumbayano Fang
  • The kambo
  • State of Fang Bwiti in Gabon
  • Impact of Westerners coming to work with the sacred wood

You will learn:

  • History of the Missoko tradition
  • Various branches of Missoko initiation:
    • Miobe/Mioba
    • Ngonde Na Dipuma
    • Sengedia
  • The impact of logging on the tradition
  • What the future of Bwiti could look like in Gabon

You will learn:

  • History of Dissumba
  • Various branches of Dissumba initiation:
    • Abanji/Mabanji
    • Ilombo
    • Ombwiri
    • Ombudi
    • Loro
  • The ngombe (sacred harp)
  • Healing rituals involved in her tradition
  • Training to serve the wood
    • What does it involve?
    • How long does it take?

instructor-image

Tatayo

Instructor

About Instructor

Tatayo (“Fruit of the Wind”) first arrived in Gabon in 1971 at the age of 21 and became a Gabonese citizen. In 1979, he became the first white person to be initiated into the Bwiti Fang tradition in Gabon. In 1994, he was initiated into the Misokko tradition. As a guide for numerous expeditions and missions, including those of National Geographic, the BBC, and others, Tatayo is considered to have “opened the door” to westerners in Gabon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Please see below for start and finish dates/times. This course is currently being offered live and dates/times will change throughout the year.

$0

This course includes

  • Modules 3
  • Duration 10 Months
  • Skills University
  • Language English
  • Availability Cohort
  • Certificate No
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