DAWA ZANGMO
Thimphu
he Centre for Bhutan and Gross National Happiness (GNH) Studies (CBS), in partnership with the Central Monastic Body of Bhutan, successfully hosted the International Conference on Science, Mindfulness, and Meditation, bringing together experts, practitioners, and scholars from around the globe.
The four-day event, held at Zhichenkhar in Thimphu, commenced on June 3 and concluded on June 6.
The conference was inaugurated with an auspicious opening ceremony graced by distinguished guests.
Her Majesty the Gyalyum Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, Her Royal Highness Princess Sonam Dechan Wangchuck, His Eminence Vairotsana Rinpoche, and His Eminence Dorji Lopen of the Central Monastic Body lent royal and spiritual significance to the commencement of the event.
The primary objective of the conference was to facilitate meaningful dialogue between ancient spiritual traditions and contemporary scientific inquiry. The sessions over the four days featured an array of talks and presentations, delving into the interplay between traditional meditation techniques and scientific research.
Prominent topics included the scientific exploration of chakra and mantra practices, as well as studies on neuroplasticity and the synchronization of brain functions through meditative practices.
A significant highlight of the first day was the examination of the role of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and biometric tools in meditation research. These advancements were explored in detail for their potential to deepen the understanding and practice of mindfulness and mental training.
The opening ceremony of the pre-conference, held on June 2, was presided over by the, Lyonchhen Tshering Tobgay. During his address, the Prime Minister extended a warm welcome to all international participants and speakers.
Emphasizing the importance of the gathering, he noted, “If the mind is restless, relationships suffer. If the heart is heavy, even the best technology can’t bring peace. So, this gathering, where science meets meditation, where research meets ancient wisdom, is not just timely. It’s necessary.”
Highlighting Bhutan’s national values, the PM further stated that while advanced forms of meditation are practiced by trained masters, simpler practices such as calm abiding meditation are accessible and beneficial for lay practitioners.
He referenced the Gross National Happiness Report of 2022, which indicated a notable 5 percent increase over the previous six years in the number of Bhutanese citizens practicing meditation excluding those engaged in long-term retreats
The conference drew substantial international audience, with more than 400 attendees recorded on the first day alone. Among them were over 200 international participants and more than 60 speakers representing diverse backgrounds and countries, including India, the United States, Thailand, Latvia, South Africa, Ukraine, Mexico, Venezuela, Russia, and Hungary.
On the second day, the conference centered on the transformative potential of mindfulness-based interventions. Speakers presented evidence and insights into how mindfulness can convert psychological distress into present-moment awareness and enhance well-being.
A particular focus was placed on process-based mindfulness training for mental health, alongside discussions on the role of mindfulness in cultivating happiness and interpersonal harmony.
One of the key discussions, involved the impact of mindfulness on adolescent identity development. Experts underscored the critical importance of incorporating mindfulness practices into educational systems and public health policy.
By fostering emotional resilience and cognitive growth, mindfulness was presented as an essential tool in nurturing the mental and emotional development of children and young adults.
In addition to academic and theoretical presentations, the conference also offered experiential learning sessions. These immersive practices included guided meditation sessions such as Niguma Yoga and Pneumatic Breath work designed to offer participants a deeper, embodied experience of meditative states.
These sessions provided practical insights into transpersonal awareness and the subtler dimensions of consciousness.
The third day, themed “Rewarding the Mind: Meditative Practices for Earth Connection,” spotlighted the intersection of ecological awareness and spiritual practice. Speakers explored how meditative disciplines can enhance well-being while cultivating a deeper connection with nature.
The day’s discussions offered comparative perspectives on Buddhist meditation and its relevance in both ancient and modern contexts.
Topics that resonated deep with the audience included the integration of traditional and secular mindfulness practices, the Bhutanese medical tradition of Sowa Rigpa, and the use of nanotechnology in supporting meditation practices.
Additionally, presentations on five-element meditation for emotional intelligence, and the exploration of Rlung (subtle wind energy) and energy channels for effective meditation, captured the attention of both scholars and practitioners.
To celebrate the convergence of culture and mindfulness, a mindfulness music concert was held in the evening. Featuring renowned performers from Bhutan, India, Mongolia, and Nepal, the concert served as a vibrant culmination of the day’s themes and left a lasting impression on attendees.
The final day continued to inspire through an array of presentations, drawing together threads of spirituality, science, and human transformation. The concluding sessions featured powerful narratives of personal awakening and devotion, offering reflections from various spiritual and cultural perspectives.
Among the sessions that stood out was a presentation titled Matter of History: A Meditation on Ethnography & Buddhism, which explored how ethnographic understanding can enrich spiritual discourse.
Another session, The Art of Transformation, examined the role of sacred sounds, colors, and rituals in catalyzing inner change and self-realization.
Further discussions provided deeper insight into meditation from the lens of Subtle Body Anatomy, shedding light on the energetic structures that underpin traditional meditative systems.
A particularly engaging session, Master Your Breath, Master Your Mind: Breathing between Worlds, explored the physiological and metaphysical significance of breath work in achieving mental clarity and inner balance.
Concluding the day’s proceedings were reflections on Buddhism, Mindfulness, and Mortality Salience. These sessions contemplated the themes of life, death, and spiritual awareness, weaving together personal insight, philosophical inquiry, and contemplative practice.
Throughout its duration, the Bhutan Meditation Conference maintained a strong and consistent turnout, with over 400 participants attending daily.
The event drew individuals from varied academic, spiritual, and professional backgrounds, making it a rich platform for cross-cultural and interdisciplinary exchange.
“It’s truly inspiring. This year’s focus on integrating Vajrayana principles with scientific research on meditation and mindfulness brings a unique depth. It’s not just about spiritual practice anymore, it’s about understanding the mind through both ancient wisdom and modern science,” said Dr. Kaveri Gill, Professor from Canada.
The successful organization and the scale of participation underscore Bhutan’s growing role as a global hub for contemplative sciences and spiritual dialogue.
With its unique integration of ancient wisdom and contemporary research, the four-day event not only deepened global appreciation of Bhutan’s spiritual heritage but also fostered international collaboration in advancing mental well-being, emotional resilience, and holistic development.
