Sessions at Open Source Bridge 2009 about mind-body with notes

Wednesday 17th June 2009

• Get Off Your Asana and Move!

  by Sherri Montgomery

  In technology the body is often thought of as merely a vehicle for the brain. We tend to be so intensely focused upon the tasks of the brain that the body is often ignored until problems such as carpal tunnel, neck, shoulder and back pain arise. When the thinking and physical "bodies" are integrated we find that the system as a whole is more efficient. Hatha Yoga provides a path to help not only the mind and body function fluidly together, but it is also a means to care for the whole body before problems arise.

  Yoga does not require complicated props or a special place to practice it. Breathing and physical postures can be done anytime, anywhere. Postures and breath practice do not require that anyone be able to bend into complicated positions or hold their breath for a long time. Practice can be simple, easy and restorative and a short practice, even at a desk between phone calls, may bring lasting benefits.

  This is a yoga workshop for anyone who sits and works on computers a lot. You will learn breathing exercises and physical postures that can be done at anytime to help maintain a healthy body and clear mind. Suggestions will be included for how to modify stretches to protect injuries and provide gentle opening.

  • Health
  • mind-body
  • Yoga

  At 6:15pm to 7:00pm, Wednesday 17th June

  Coverage note

Thursday 18th June 2009

• Re-factor Your Brain: Meditation for Geeks

  by Christie Koehler Ⓥ

  Meditation is the ultimate open source tool. You can do it anywhere and it’s free. It requires only your brain and your body. It’s positive effects are numerous, including: increased productivity, better problem-solving and a reduction in overall stress.

  This talk will include:

  • Presentation of current scientific research regarding the long-term effects of meditation on the brain.
  • An explanation about how these effects specifically apply to OS Bridge participants. E.g., with a meditation practice they will: write better code, solve problems quicker and with greater clarity, communicate more effectively with colleagues, and reduce overall stress.
  • Explanation of different meditation techniques, including a guided practice of select techniques.
  • Suggestions for starting a meditation practice at home/work.

  This talk is faith/tradition-agnostic and open to all experience levels. Especially encouraged to attend are those who have never meditated.

  • Health
  • mind-body
  • Productivity

  At 6:15pm to 7:00pm, Thursday 18th June

  Coverage note