Stanford offers course on well-being inspired by BTS leader RM

Stanford University has introduced a new three-unit course, "Namjooning: Well-being Inspiration from BTS," aimed at exploring the practices and struggles of maintaining mental well-being. Taught by Professor James R. Jacobs from the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, the seminar meets twice a week from September 22 to December 4, with nine students enrolled.

The course draws inspiration from BTS leader RM's favorite self-care routines, such as cycling, visiting art museums, reading, journaling, and time spent in nature. Its content spans various aspects of well-being, including sleep, anxiety, creative block, self-love, self-awareness, medication, diet, exercise, nutritional supplements, and therapy. Students will analyze both scientific research and creative works to understand these topics more thoroughly.

Prerequisites for the course include a desire to flourish in college and life, an interest in data, and a respect for BTS. Students will engage in written assignments, presentations, and a final project inspired by RM's 2022 solo album, "Indigo." While the course does not directly involve RM or his agency, Big Hit Music, the description notes that BTS performed at Stanford in May during their Arirang World Tour.

Notably, RM, an avid art collector, co-curated the exhibition "RM x SFMOMA: Between You and Me" at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, which opened on October 3 and will run until February 7, 2027. The South American leg of the BTS's Arirang World Tour concluded in Sao Paulo on October 31, with the next Asian leg set to begin in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, on November 19.