Waves of being : a phenomenological journey with the Bajau Laut An online Lecture by Erik Abrahamsson, Swedish anthropologist, writer, and photographer
Wednesday 2nd April 2025, starting at 9.15am
Please email kieran.cronin@setu.ie to reserve your place and receive your link to the webinar.
Presentation Overview:
The presentation will focus on the Bajau Laut, often referred to as the “people of the sea,” living in Southeast Asia. Erik Abrahamsson will discuss their lifestyle, a bit about their history, and their deep connection to water. He will explore both their cultural and physiological connection to the sea, emphasizing how their lived experience shapes this bond. This includes how they embody the concept of "blue mind," which refers to the meditative, calming state that being in or near water evokes, fostering resilience and a unique relationship with their environment. This connection influences their daily lives, their approach to the sea, and even their ability to stay relaxed in the water—an essential aspect of drowning prevention. Additionally, the lecture will touch on the present challenges they face, as well as discuss the aquatic ape hypothesis, linking their way of life to broader evolutionary perspectives.
Short Bio:
My name is Erik Abrahamsson—a Swedish anthropologist, writer, and photographer with a focus on indigenous cultures, maritime lifestyles, and human evolution. Since 2010, I have been studying the sea nomads Bajau Laut in Southeast Asia and have lived with them for extended periods in the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia. My fieldwork has resulted in academic papers, several articles, radio programs, and photo exhibitions about the Bajau Laut—“The People of the Sea.” I am particularly interested in the intersection of their cultural and physiological adaptation and connection to the sea.
Website: https://theaquaticape.org/
The Prevention of Suicide by Drowning Webinar took place on Wednesday 13th November from 8pm to 9.30pm (Irish time). If you would like to find out more about this event please email suicidebydrowningwebinar@gmail.com.
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