The Science of Mindfulness: A Research-Based Path to Well-Being
by Ronald D. Siegel
The Great Courses: Better Living (9303), The Great Courses (9303)
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Ever noticed that trying to calm down often produces more agitation? That trying to change bad habits can seem impossible? Or that real fulfillment can be elusive, despite living a successful life? Often, such difficulties stem from the human brain's hardwired tendency to seek pleasure and avoid pain. Modern science demonstrates that this survival mechanism served the needs of our earliest ancestors, but is at the root of many problems that we face today, such as depression, compulsive and show more addictive behaviors, chronic pain, and stress and anxiety. For thousands of years, people have used mindfulness practices to deal effectively with a wide range of life challenges. But how exactly does mindfulness work, in scientific terms? How can the human brain, which gives rise to so many of our problems, actually provide a solution? We are now in the midst of an explosion of scientific research demonstrating that mindfulness practice changes both the function and the structure of the brain. Numerous studies show which parts of the brain are affected by mindfulness practice, and how these neurobiological changes benefit our minds and bodies. Now, in the 24 fascinating lectures of The Science of Mindfulness , Professor Siegel, a clinical psychologist at Harvard Medical School, reveals the science behind mindfulness in compelling detail and demonstrates its application to a wide range of issues - psychological, social, and medical. You'll examine the neurobiology underlying ancient practices that are now profoundly influencing the contemporary world. And you'll learn many practical ways you can use mindfulness techniques in your own life. This playful, caring course demonstrates the effectiveness of mindfulness in responding to many of humanity's fundamental existential problems. Please note that this recording may include references to supplemental texts or print references that are not essential to the program and not supp.... show less
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These series of lectures seek to bring the fields of psychology and scientific research together with the practices of mindfulness and meditation, and they do so masterfully. These lectures very thoroughly cover the benefits of mindfulness and how meditative practices can be successfully integrated into to science-based mental health therapies.
The lectures also offer individuals ways of developing mindfulness by staying in the moment even while doing routine daily tasks such as driving and walking. Following the lectures, there are guided meditations to help the beginner start out the path of mindfulness.
The audio set covers numerous different aspects of mental health therapies and the benefits that can be achieved through the show more incorporation of mindfulness practices. I recommend it to anyone seeking a starting place for adding meditation to their daily routine, as well as for those interested in how meditation can enhance science-based mental health therapies. show less
The lectures also offer individuals ways of developing mindfulness by staying in the moment even while doing routine daily tasks such as driving and walking. Following the lectures, there are guided meditations to help the beginner start out the path of mindfulness.
The audio set covers numerous different aspects of mental health therapies and the benefits that can be achieved through the show more incorporation of mindfulness practices. I recommend it to anyone seeking a starting place for adding meditation to their daily routine, as well as for those interested in how meditation can enhance science-based mental health therapies. show less
This is a series of 26 lectures on mindfulness and related topics. I found the lecture on placebo effect to be useful. I am also trying to implement the mindfulness methods discussed to examine the effects on mood, ability to concentrate, and well being. The author appears to be knowledgeable with a preference for input from eastern techniques and thought processes. I felt the information was insightful and potentially useful. I reserve judgment on whether it truly is useful.
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16 Works 394 Members
Ronald D. Siegel, PsyD, is Assistant Professor of Psychology, part time, at Harvard Medical School, where he has taught since the early 1980s. His books include The Mindfulness Solution: Everyday Practices for Everyday Problems. Dr. Siegel teaches internationally about the application of mindfulness practices in psychotherapy and other fields, and show more maintains a private practice in Lincoln, Massachusetts. He regularly uses the practices in this book to work with his own ever-fluctuating self-esteem. show less
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- Genres
- Nonfiction, General Nonfiction, Science & Nature, Religion & Spirituality
- DDC/MDS
- 158.12 — Philosophy & psychology Psychology Applied psychology Personal improvement and analysis Personal improvement and analysis through meditation
- LCC
- RA790 — Medicine Public aspects of medicine Public aspects of medicine Public health. Hygiene. Preventive medicine Mental health. Mental illness prevention
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- 98
- Popularity
- 328,927
- Reviews
- 2
- Rating
- (3.74)
- Languages
- English
- Media
- Paper, Audiobook, Ebook
- ISBNs
- 7
- ASINs
- 2
