Exploring Religious Questions Series - "“Embracing Grief and Gravity: An Embodied Exploration”November 1, 2021 at 7–9 p.m.
We have all experienced various losses and forms of suffering, including during the ongoing pandemic. For over a year now, the global pandemic has brought death, depression, and despair. The pandemic has also exposed racial injustices and ongoing inequalities related to health care, income, and education. At the same time, we have had to pay closer attention to what nourishesus, fosters resilience, and sparks joy and positive change. In this series, faith leaders and specialists in the science of resilience help us reflect on anguish, hope, and the paradoxical capacity to embrace both grief and gratitude amidst loss and suffering.
Speaker: Professor Michele Rusinko
Rusinko is a teacher, choreographer, dancer, writer, engaged citizen and passionate life-long learner. She has taught at Gustavus Adolphus College, in St. Peter, Minnesota, since 1988, and served as chair of the Department of Theatre and Dance for over half those years. She received her B.A. from St. Olaf College and M.F.A. from Arizona State University. Her current research explores the intersections between her experience teaching dance and somatic science; the psychology of resiliency; and an embodied understanding of human dignity. She holds a certificate in Positive Psychology from the Wholebeing Institute and is currently working on Coaching Certification in Positive Psychology.