Memory Connections

Memory Connections is a free program for people living with dementia and their caregivers. On the second Thursday of every month, trained teaching artists and special performers facilitate an online experience designed to promote engagement between participants and the art and cultures of the Himalayan region.

In addition to an in-depth look at two artworks from the Museum’s collection, the October program includes a discussion with Lavina Shamdasani, a certified Compassion Cultivation Training© (CCT™) instructor. Through CCT, participants experience how the value of compassion and compassionate behaviors lead to a greater sense of purpose, more resilience and ease, and improved health outcomes.

About the Speaker

Lavina Shamdasani studied the neuroscience, philosophy, and pedagogy of compassion at the Compassion Institute™. She has taught Compassion Cultivation Training (CCT) and self-compassion classes, and led book club discussions and meditations at Tibet House US and The Trinity School. She has a degree in pre-med and biomedical engineering and has worked in the healthcare industry for several years. Having lived in Kenya, India, and the US, Lavina has firsthand experience with a multitude of different religions and cultures and has an international and diverse background. CCT had a transformative impact on her and brought about a positive shift in the overall quality of her life and relationships that inspired her to teach within her community. Lavina has a passion for travel and design.

Major support for Mindful Connections is provided by the Mellon Foundation with additional support from The Frederick P. Lenz Foundation for American Buddhism.

Image credit: Detail of Chakrasamvara; Tibet; 18th century; pigments on cloth; Rubin Museum of Art; gift of the Shelley & Donald Rubin Foundation; F1997.49.1 (HAR 895)