How Indigenous Cosmovisions Could Guide Us Towards Whole Systems Healing and Wellbeing
Xochipilli, the Mesoamerican deity of flowers and plant medicine, on the altar of an indigenous healer in Oaxaca, Mexico. Photo Credit: Ioana Todosia
We live and participate in a complex global system that has predominantly been shaped by a very young, science-based cosmovision. This cosmovision has greatly influenced our understanding of the world and our place within it, embracing the principles and findings of the scientific method and playing a significant role in shaping our modern approach to life, healing, and wellbeing. While the scientific method has undoubtedly been invaluable for advancements in modern medicine, it's important to acknowledge its limitations in comprehending the full scope of Whole Systems Healing. It's equally important to question whether we are inadvertently limiting the expansiveness of human knowledge by adhering to a hierarchy-based mindset, where a science-based cosmovision is considered superior to other knowledge systems influenced by different cosmovisions.
Whole Systems Healing is a perspective on wellbeing that recognizes the intricate interconnections between different elements within living systems. It acknowledges the diverse intelligence of human and non-human entities that coexist within these systems and takes into account the complex relationships between interconnected elements. Acknowledging the various aspects of a system, whether they are individual, societal, or environmental, Whole Systems Healing encompasses the manifestations in the mind, body, and spirit of individuals, as well as the pursuit of social justice, environmental health, and prosperity within communities. Unfortunately, science-based cosmovision may overlook these complexities as it often focuses on isolated parts rather than the holistic landscape. This limitation can be observed in the reductionist approach of modern science, which tends to break down phenomena into smaller parts to study them individually. While this reductionist approach has led to significant advancements and innovations in various fields, it often fails to capture the intricate interconnections and emergent properties that arise from whole living systems.
Another limitation of science-based cosmovision can consider its emphasis on empirical evidence and measurable outcomes. The scientific method heavily relies on quantifiable data and objective measurements, which are undeniably valuable for understanding the objective aspects of health and wellbeing. However, it may overlook the subjective experiences and qualitative aspects that are equally essential. Traditional healing practices rooted in different bio-cultural knowledge systems, for example, consider Spirit, epigenetics, connection with nature, and community, which may not neatly fit within the scientific framework, because they cannot be "proven", or disregarded and not considered as valuable inputs until proven through the framework of the scientific method.
Science-based cosmovision can also be influenced by biases, institutional and market interests, and the current limitations of scientific knowledge itself and its frameworks. The scientific community is constantly evolving, and the acceptance of new perspectives and paradigms, as we have seen with communities involved in psychedelic research for example, often takes time. These limitations not only restrict and impede the diversity of available knowledge but also hinder the potential for integrated solutions to innovate current systems of healing and wellbeing. This becomes increasingly crucial in our present culture, where unwell bodies and a planet facing alarming challenges such as anthropogenic climate change, rapid biodiversity loss, and ecosystem collapse, necessitate urgent and transformative actions.
So, how can we overcome these limitations? It feels essential to begin embracing an integrative approach to our understanding of systems of healing and wellbeing. This might involve combining the strengths of the science-based cosmovision with other equally valuable and intelligent perspectives. In creating non-hierarchical knowledge ecosystems that value qualitative research, diverse bio-cultural practices, processes, and knowledges we might be able to foster more interdisciplinary collaborations and integrate invaluable wisdom through cross-cultural knowledge transfer. By embracing different perspectives, we can gain a more comprehensive and holistic understanding of the conditions necessary for the wellbeing of the whole and each individual part, surpassing the limitations of any single approach.
Let's take a moment to explore the fascinating cosmovision of the Tonalpohualli– the sacred Mesoamerican calendar system. It goes beyond a simple calendar and holds immense meaning for the indigenous cultures of Mesoamerica. It forms a deeply rooted cosmovision that shapes outlooks on healing, wellbeing, community, and environmental stewardship. It's like a living thread that weaves together humanity, nature, and the cosmos, all interconnected in beautiful, complex, and intricate ways. The Tonalpohualli is intertwined with the natural world, encompassing aspects of ecological theory, and also reflects the cosmic forces at play, including ideas that are present in quantum and complex theory. By following the cycles of the Tonalpohualli, indigenous cultures seek harmony and balance, recognizing their profound interdependence and collaboration with all living systems.
When it comes to Whole Systems Healing, the Tonalpohualli serves as a trusted guide for indigenous healers and practitioners of traditional medicine from various backgrounds. They consult this sacred calendar to gain insights into the spiritual and cosmic influences that impact the health of a system, whether it's an individual, a community, or the entire ecosystem. By aligning with the energies present in the cycles of the Tonalpohualli, it’s believed that balance and healing can be restored within these living systems. It's not just about individuals; it's about the collective and the complex web of life. The Tonalpohualli also fosters a deep sense of community and togetherness that can be seen in how indigenous communities come together, and share ceremonies, rituals, and communal activities in alignment with the sacred cosmovision of their calendar system. It's like a shared language that honors cultural practices and reinforces human identity as one that is in constant relationship with everything around them.
The cosmology woven through the Tonalpohualli also nurtures a profound sense of environmental stewardship by recognizing the role of humanity as caretakers of the Earth–an integral part of the complex nature of reality on Earth. The cycles of the Tonalpohualli remind us of the natural rhythms and influence us to live in harmony with the environment, participate in sustainable practices, have respect for the land's resources, and embody the capacity to live in right relationship with the land. In essence, the Tonalpohualli breathes life into the worldview of various indigenous cultures, shaping their perception of time, nature, healing, community, and environmental stewardship. It connects communities to the cosmic forces surrounding and influencing them, fostering strong spiritual connections, social harmony, and a deep sense of love, care, respect, and knowledge that comes from the intelligence of the Earth and its sentient and non-sentient beings.
Our modern understanding of life, healing, and wellbeing has largely been shaped by a science-based cosmovision. However, it's vital to acknowledge the limitations of this approach, particularly when it comes to grasping the concept of Whole Systems Healing. By embracing an integrative approach that values diverse bio-cultural perspectives and knowledge systems, we can overcome these limitations and gain a more holistic understanding of healing, and how to co-create thriving systems of wellbeing. The cosmovisions and worldviews from different cultures offer valuable guidance for healing, fostering community, and inspiring environmental stewardship through meaningful relationships with all aspects of existence. By weaving together wisdom from diverse sources, we can expand our horizons, tap into the richness of bio-cultural diversity, and cultivate a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of all living systems. This inclusive approach can open previously unknown doors to innovative solutions rooted in existing knowledge and address the complex challenges we face in our modern state of collective wellbeing, the resilience of all species, and the preservation of our shared planetary home. By honoring diverse knowledges and worldviews alongside scientific discoveries, it's possible to co-create a more comprehensive, creative, sustainable, and truly regenerative cosmovision that recognizes our responsibility within the web of life, and our great capacity as humanity to influence the emergence of a resilient future for all life on Earth.
We'll be exploring the themes above and more in the upcoming 4-month course that will take a deep-dive into the healing systems of entheogenic plant medicine from Mesoamerica, Rooting Psychedelics.
Receive the details here.