Convocation talk to explore contemplation, action as means of living truth

Sara Szeglowski, whose work within the yoga world includes integrating modern technique, medicine and science into the vast framework of the yoga tradition, will present a lecture, “An Exploration of Contemplation and Action as a Means of Living Truth,” on Thursday, Nov. 11, at 4 p.m., in the Williams Center Room S204.

The talk, part of the 2021-2022 Convocation theme “Finding Truth: Communication in an Age of Misinformation,” has been coordinated by College of Education Associate Professor Guangyu Tan and is free and open to the public.

In her presentation, Ms. Szeglowski will explore the ideas of contemplation as a means to identify a true self and action that stems from knowing the true self, as a means to shift through misinformation and live with integrity.

Szeglowski will examine the difference between identity and the true self, explaining why the concept of truth and true expression are so important to identify. She will also address contemplation as a means to identify a true self and action that stems from knowing the true self as a means to avoid misinformation and live with integrity.

Szeglowski will also address whether contemplation alone works as a means of living with integrity in modern life, particularly in this reactive age. Can a focus on contemplation in itself help one to sift through misinformation and act in a way that is true?

The talk will engage with the work of John Stuart Mills, whose book, “On Liberty,” guides readers through listening and considering other viewpoints in order to employ an action-focused approach towards decision-making.

Szeglowski will also guide the audience through a 30-minute meditation and lead its members in a journey to discover one’s true self.

As the founder of Shine Yoga, YogaLife and Shine Yoga School, Szeglowski conducts specialized programming, yoga classes, yoga training and teacher certification programs. Curiosity is integral to all  Szeglowski programs.

Szeglowski has a M.A. in Comparative Literature from Rutgers and a M.S. in Technical Communication from Texas Tech University, along with 10 years of experience as a writer, researcher and program developer in behavioral health that have given her the practical tools and critical mindset to bring these seemingly divergent fields together.

Szeglowski’s lecture is supported by the Convocation Committee, the President’s Office and the Faculty Student Association.