Nurturing the Spiritual Core of Teachers Within the Nexus of Science and Spirituality

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 1:30 pm Four Seasons Ballroom 2-3
  In Roundtable Session: The Spiritual Remedy and Renewal for a More Just Education (Table 10)

Abstract

Historically, in many parts of the world, the roots of education were grounded in spirituality and wholeness. However, in recent years, the enchanting pull of digital technologies and materialistic endeavors has resulted in higher levels of anxiety and depression amongst our young people (Miller, 2016, 2021; Trzcińska et al. 2023; Twenge & Campbell, 2019). Teachers are also leaving the profession due to burnout with 75% of teachers reporting stress-related health issues (Peck, 2024) amongst other reasons. As such, it has become increasingly important to equip our teachers with the tools necessary to nurture and nourish their inner lives. This paper provides a review of wisdom from indigenous traditions and contemporary scientific research that supports teachers in nurturing their spiritual core.

Author

• Sarina Chugani Molina, University of San Diego