Keynote Speaker/Violinist Swil Kanim Ferndale , Washington
Discover the profound impact of music, storytelling, and self-expression on mental well-being during an inspiring performance by Swil Kanim, a US Army Veteran, classically trained violinist and composer, native storyteller, and respected elder of the Lummi Nation. Through the power of storytelling and reflective music, Swil Kanim will share insights from his extraordinary journey from despair to spiritual and emotional recovery as an acclaimed artist. In this experiential session, Swil Kanim will demonstrate how the arts played a crucial role in his transformation as he embraced the responsibility to express himself honestly and authentically. Showcasing how he responded honestly to his own higher calling, he will provide a model for audience members to integrate diverse experiences and to honor themselves in answering their calling as healers. By fostering a commitment to understanding the cultural foundations of whole health, the session will challenge CL psychiatrists to reflect on their roles as healers for mind, body, and spirit, and encourage deep empathy and compassion in their relationships with patients and communities.
