Amanda Polin Pereira

Biography and Expertise of Amanda Polin Pereira

Amanda Polin Pereira has established herself as a significant voice in the Brazilian TCIM landscape through a unique combination of scientific inquiry and dedicated practice. Her work centers on Suseonjae Meditation, a contemplative practice she not only coordinates but also subjects to rigorous academic investigation through her doctoral studies at the University of São Paulo. This dual role as both a disseminator and a researcher allows her to build crucial bridges between traditional knowledge systems and contemporary health sciences.

Her expertise directly aligns with the 3rd WCTCIM’s Thematic Axis, “Diversity of TCIM Modalities,” by introducing a specific contemplative practice and exploring its potential for well-being. Furthermore, her research focus contributes to the axis on “Evidence-Based Contributions of TCIM to Global Public Health.” By generating data on the effects of meditation, the work of Amanda Polin Pereira supports the principles of the Gujarat Declaration, which calls for the integration of evidence-based traditional medicine into public health.

Beyond her academic pursuits, her involvement with professional regulatory bodies demonstrates a commitment to integrating these practices safely and effectively into the broader healthcare system. This practical engagement is crucial for creating sustainable “Well-being Societies,” a key pillar of the congress motto. Therefore, her perspective is invaluable for discussions on both the scientific validation and the systemic integration of TCIM.

Professional Career

The professional trajectory of Amanda Polin Pereira reflects a deep commitment to institutionalizing and disseminating integrative health practices in Brazil. Her career is characterized by active roles in both educational leadership and professional governance, ensuring that the growth of TCIM is supported by both qualified instruction and sound regulatory frameworks. This balance of responsibilities has positioned her as a respected figure in the field.

Her work extends beyond individual practice to influence how professions like physiotherapy and occupational therapy formally recognize and incorporate integrative approaches. This strategic involvement is vital for the long-term integration of TCIM into the national health system.

• Coordinator and Disseminator of Suseonjae Meditation: In this key leadership role, she is responsible for organizing, teaching, and promoting the practice of Suseonjae Meditation. This involves developing educational materials, leading workshops, and building a community of practitioners dedicated to this contemplative art.
• Member of the Technical Chamber of Integrative and Complementary Health Practices of CREFITO-03: Her participation in this influential committee for the Regional Council of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy of the 3rd Region involves advising on standards, ethics, and best practices for the inclusion of TCIM within these health professions.
• Researcher at the University of São Paulo (USP): As a doctoral candidate, she actively engages in research, contributing to the body of scientific literature on the mechanisms and outcomes of contemplative practices in health contexts.

Academic Qualifications

The academic foundation of Amanda Polin Pereira is notably interdisciplinary, combining the analytical precision of bioengineering with the person-centered focus of nursing science. This educational path has provided her with a unique skill set to investigate the complex interactions between mind, body, and health. Her training enables her to design and execute research that is both methodologically sound and clinically relevant.

This academic preparation is fundamental to her work, allowing her to explore traditional practices through a scientific lens that can measure and articulate their benefits. Consequently, her qualifications are a testament to the new generation of researchers advancing the TCIM field.

• Doctoral Candidate in Nursing: Currently pursuing her PhD through the Interunit Postgraduate Program in Nursing at the University of São Paulo (USP), focusing her research on the applications and effects of integrative practices like meditation.
• Master of Science (MSc) in Bioengineering: Earned from the Interunit Postgraduate Program in Bioengineering at the University of São Paulo (USP), this degree provided her with strong technical and analytical skills for studying physiological systems.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Physiotherapy: Her foundational degree provided her with a comprehensive understanding of human movement, rehabilitation, and clinical care, grounding her research in practical health applications. This background also qualifies her for her role within CREFITO-03.

Research and Publications

The research conducted by Amanda Polin Pereira is centered on generating high-quality scientific evidence for the efficacy of contemplative practices. Her work investigates how techniques such as Suseonjae Meditation can modulate physiological and psychological processes, contributing to improved health outcomes and overall well-being. Her studies often employ a bioengineering perspective to measure objective changes, such as alterations in autonomic nervous system activity or stress hormone levels.

This research is vital for moving TCIM from anecdotal support to evidence-based practice, a central theme of the WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy. By publishing her findings in scientific journals, she contributes to a global repository of knowledge that clinicians and policymakers can use to make informed decisions. The work of Amanda Polin Pereira helps demystify meditation, presenting it as a valid non-pharmacological intervention for various health challenges.

Her publications and academic presentations focus on creating a reproducible methodology for studying contemplative sciences. This commitment to rigorous research design ensures that her findings are credible and can be built upon by other scientists. Therefore, her research efforts are crucial for legitimizing and expanding the role of mind-body therapies within mainstream healthcare and public health initiatives.

Board and Committee Activities

Amanda Polin Pereira extends her influence in the TCIM field through active participation in key professional organizations. Her committee roles are instrumental in shaping the professional standards and regulatory landscape for integrative practices in Brazil, particularly within the allied health professions. This work is essential for ensuring patient safety and promoting high-quality care.

Her involvement demonstrates a commitment to the systemic integration of TCIM, moving beyond individual research to influence broader professional conduct. This leadership is crucial for fostering an environment where these practices can thrive responsibly.

• Member, Technical Chamber of Integrative and Complementary Health Practices: Within the Conselho Regional de Fisioterapia e Terapia Ocupacional da 3ª Região (CREFITO-03), the regional council for physiotherapy and occupational therapy, her role is to provide expert guidance. She helps develop guidelines and official positions on the use of TCIM by licensed professionals, impacting thousands of practitioners in the state of São Paulo.
• Coordinator, Suseonjae Meditation – International School of Humanities and Meditation: As a key figure in the Brazilian chapter of this international school, her leadership involves curriculum development, instructor training, and strategic planning. This administrative and governance role is central to the sustainable growth and dissemination of the practice in the region.

Connect with Amanda Polin Pereira

For a more detailed overview of her academic achievements, publications, and professional background, the Lattes Platform, maintained by the Brazilian National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq), serves as the official curriculum vitae for researchers in Brazil.

Official Lattes CV: View Full Academic Curriculum

ORCID Profile: View Research Publications