Mindfulness Research Symposium & Retreat

Explore scientific evidence from distinguished researchers from the fields of neuroscience, artificial intelligence, contemplative & behavioural sciences, along with pragmatic activities and practices led by contemplative practitioners. Hosted and currated by the the Hospital for Sick Children's Mindfulness project, in partnership with the University of Toronto's Buddhism, Psychology and Mental Health Program, New College, Faculty of Arts & Sciences.

Join us at the SickKids Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning for this innovative symposium + retreat that will include a mixture of learning styles, with keynotes, evidence-based case studies, student poster sessions, hands-on mindfulness activities, music and more.

Detailed agendas for each day are included below. Please note, these schedules may be subject to some minor changes.

Retreat: What to Expect

Thursday January 22nd

This retreat is being led by Plum Village monastics. A unique and replenishing experience to engage and train in Applied Mindfulness and Compassion-based practices that can be woven into your daily life. Led by a delegation from internationally renowned scholar, peace activist and Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village mindfulness centre in France, the retreat day offers an opportunity for you to renew and refresh yourself through mindful activities designed to restore inner-stability, hope, and inspire practical application in your workplace and beyond.

Symposium: What to Expect

Friday January 23rd

An innovative and dynamic gathering that reimagines the traditional symposium format through a series of dialogues on today’s most pressing issues in healthcare and education. These conversations bring together leading scientists, international and local experts, Buddhist monastics, and Indigenous wisdom keepers—creating a rare and meaningful exchange across disciplines and traditions.

A poster session will be included over the lunch hour. Instructions for poster submission including deadlines are available at the following link: https://forms.gle/aNCrWLL2AcLHWJW3A

Ticket prices include lunch, tea/coffee and light refreshments throughout the day.

If cost feels prohibitive and you are part of an equity-deserving group, we encourage you to reach out. We look forward to supporting you.

SCROLL DOWN FOR FULL AGENDA