Guest lecture on “Tibetan Medicine and the Body-Mind Connection” by Dr. Tenzing Jinpa Bhutia. The lecture was open to all, free of charge, and in English. Participation was possible on site at Freudplatz 3 or ONLINE.

12th January 2024, 6 – 7 pm | SFU Vienna, Freudplatz 3, Lecture Hall A 
“Tibetan Medicine and the Body-Mind Connection”

Dr. Tenzing Jinpa Bhutia, a renowned expert in Tibetan Medicine, will present an in-depth exploration of Sowa Rigpa, also known as Tibetan Medicine, tracing its historical roots and philosophical underpinnings. With an academic and professional journey stretching from 1987 to 2024, Dr. Bhutia’s experience in Tibetan Medicine is extensive, including roles as an assistant lecturer, principal of esteemed institutions, and significant contributions in teaching and pharmaceutical training. His education from the Tibetan Medical & Astro Institute (Mentseekhang) in Dharamsala, India, and a year-long retreat following a decade of clinical practice, highlight his deep commitment to this field.

The introduction to Dr. Bhutia’s lecture will be made by the Dean of our Medicine Faculty Univ.–Doz. Dr. med. univ. Christian Joukhadar.

Sowa Rigpa, originating from the rugged terrains of Tibet and the Himalayas, is deeply influenced by the indigenous Bon tradition and Buddhism. This system of medicine, with roots tracing back to Nyathri Tsenpo (127 BC), the first unified king of Tibet, underwent significant evolution during the reigns of Buddhist kings like Lhathothori Nyentsen (374-493 AD), Srongtsen Gampo (617-650 AD), and Thrisong Duetsen (755-797 AD). A cornerstone of this tradition is the concept of the body-mind connection, as exemplified in the foundational texts of Sowa Rigpa, particularly the ‘Gyudzhi’ by Yuthog Yonden Gonpo-I (708-833 AD).

This presentation elucidated the various stages of development of Sowa Rigpa, emphasizing its contemporary interpretation of the body-mind relationship. It seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of this ancient yet dynamically evolving medicinal practice, offering insights into its relevance and applications in modern healthcare.

  • For Psychotherapy Science students, participation can be credited as part of the “Window of Opportunity”, if they take part in person at Freudplatz 3. In addition to participating, students have to provide the assignments required by the faculty.

Sigmund Freud University 
Freudplatz 1+3
1020 Vienna