What Can Neuroscience Learn From Contemplative Practices

Author : Zoran Josipovic,Bernard J. Baars
Publisher : Frontiers Media SA
Page : 168 pages
File Size : 48,5 Mb
Release : 2016-09-22
Category : Psychology
ISBN : 9782889199716

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What Can Neuroscience Learn from Contemplative Practices? by Zoran Josipovic,Bernard J. Baars Pdf

A recent wave of brain research has advanced our understanding of the neural mechanisms of conscious states, contents and functions. A host of questions remain to be explored, as shown by lively debates between models of higher vs. lower-order aspects of consciousness, as well as global vs. local models. (Baars 2007; Block, 2009; Dennett and Cohen, 2011; Lau and Rosenthal, 2011). Over some twenty-five centuries the contemplative traditions have also developed explicit descriptions and taxonomies of the mind, to interpret experiences that are often reported in contemplative practices (Radhakrishnan & Moore, 1967; Rinbochay & Naper, 1981). These traditional descriptions sometimes converge on current scientific debates, such as the question of conceptual vs. non-conceptual consciousness; reflexivity or “self-knowing” associated with consciousness; the sense of self and consciousness; and aspects of consciousness that are said to continue during sleep. These real or claimed aspects of consciousness have not been fully integrated into scientific models so far. This Research Topic in Consciousness Research aims to provide a forum for theoretical proposals, new empirical findings, integrative literature reviews, and methodological improvements inspired by meditation-based models. We include a broad array of topics, including but not limited to: replicable findings from a variety of systematic mental practices; changes in brain functioning and organization that can be attributed to such practices; their effects on adaptation and neural plasticity; measurable effects on perception, cognition, affect and self-referential processes. We include contributions that address the question of causal attribution. Many published studies are correlational in nature, because of the inherent difficulty of conducting longitudinal experiments based on a major lifestyle decision, such as the decision to commit to a mental practice over a period of years. We also feature clinical and case studies, integrative syntheses and significant opinion articles.

Author : Anonim
Publisher : Unknown
Page : 0 pages
File Size : 55,9 Mb
Release : 2016
Category : Electronic
ISBN : OCLC:1368423351

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What Can Neuroscience Learn from Contemplative Practices?. by Anonim Pdf

A recent wave of brain research has advanced our understanding of the neural mechanisms of conscious states, contents and functions. A host of questions remain to be explored, as shown by lively debates between models of higher vs. lower-order aspects of consciousness, as well as global vs. local models. (Baars 2007; Block, 2009; Dennett and Cohen, 2011; Lau and Rosenthal, 2011). Over some twenty-five centuries the contemplative traditions have also developed explicit descriptions and taxonomies of the mind, to interpret experiences that are often reported in contemplative practices (Radhakrishnan & Moore, 1967; Rinbochay & Naper, 1981). These traditional descriptions sometimes converge on current scientific debates, such as the question of conceptual vs. non-conceptual consciousness; reflexivity or "self-knowing" associated with consciousness; the sense of self and consciousness; and aspects of consciousness that are said to continue during sleep. These real or claimed aspects of consciousness have not been fully integrated into scientific models so far. This Research Topic in Consciousness Research aims to provide a forum for theoretical proposals, new empirical findings, integrative literature reviews, and methodological improvements inspired by meditation-based models. We include a broad array of topics, including but not limited to: replicable findings from a variety of systematic mental practices; changes in brain functioning and organization that can be attributed to such practices; their effects on adaptation and neural plasticity; measurable effects on perception, cognition, affect and self-referential processes. We include contributions that address the question of causal attribution. Many published studies are correlational in nature, because of the inherent difficulty of conducting longitudinal experiments based on a major lifestyle decision, such as the decision to commit to a mental practice over a period of years. We also feature clinical and case studies, integrative syntheses and significant opinion articles.

Author : Laura Schmalzl,Catherine E. Kerr
Publisher : Frontiers Media SA
Page : 217 pages
File Size : 43,6 Mb
Release : 2016-07-05
Category : Neurosciences. Biological psychiatry. Neuropsychiatry
ISBN : 9782889198948

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Neural Mechanisms Underlying Movement-Based Embodied Contemplative Practices by Laura Schmalzl,Catherine E. Kerr Pdf

Relative to the extensive neuroscientific work on seated meditation practices, far less studies have investigated the neural mechanisms underlying movement-based contemplative practices such as yoga or tai chi. Movement-based practices have, however, been found to be effective for relieving the symptoms of several clinical conditions, and to elicit measurable changes in physiological, neural, and behavioral parameters in healthy individuals. An important challenge for neuroscience is therefore to advance our understanding of the neurophysiological and neurocognitive mechanisms underlying these observed effects, and this Research Topic aims to make a contribution in this regard. It showcases the current state of the art of investigations on movement-based practices including yoga, tai chi, the Feldenkrais Method, as well as dance. Featured contributions include empirical research, proposals of theoretical frameworks, as well as novel perspectives on a variety of issues relevant to the field. This Research Topic is the first of its kind to specifically attempt a neurophysiological and neurocognitive characterization that spans multiple mindful movement approaches, and we trust it will be of interest to basic scientists, clinical researchers, and contemplative practitioners alike.

Author : Patricia Owen-Smith
Publisher : Indiana University Press
Page : 167 pages
File Size : 52,5 Mb
Release : 2017-11-30
Category : Education
ISBN : 9780253031785

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The Contemplative Mind in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning by Patricia Owen-Smith Pdf

Cover -- THE CONTEMPLATIVE MIND IN THE SCHOLARSHIP OF TEACHING AND LEARNING -- Title -- Copyright -- Dedication -- Contents -- Acknowledgments -- Introduction: Envisioning the Contemplative Commons -- 1 A Historical Review -- 2 Contemplative Practices in Higher Education -- 3 Challenges and Replies to Contemplative Methods -- 4 Contemplative Research -- 5 The Contemplative Mind: A Vision of Higher Education for the Twenty-First Century -- Coda -- References -- Index.

Author : Norman Farb,Catherine Kerr,Wolf E. Mehling,Olga Pollatos
Publisher : Frontiers Media SA
Page : 318 pages
File Size : 52,7 Mb
Release : 2017-02-07
Category : Electronic book
ISBN : 9782889450947

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Interoception, Contemplative Practice, and Health by Norman Farb,Catherine Kerr,Wolf E. Mehling,Olga Pollatos Pdf

There is an emergent movement of scientists and scholars working on somatic awareness, interoception and embodiment. This work cuts across studies of neurophysiology, somatic anthropology, contemplative practice, and mind-body medicine. Key questions include: How is body awareness cultivated? What role does interoception play for emotion and cognition in healthy adults and children as well as in different psychopathologies? What are the neurophysiological effects of this cultivation in practices such as Yoga, mindfulness meditation, Tai Chi and other embodied contemplative practices? What categories from other traditions might be useful as we explore embodiment? Does the cultivation of body awareness within contemplative practice offer a tool for coping with suffering from conditions, such as pain, addiction, and dysregulated emotion? This emergent field of research into somatic awareness and associated interoceptive processes, however, faces many obstacles. The principle obstacle lies in our 400-year Cartesian tradition that views sensory perception as epiphenomenal to cognition. The segregation of perception and cognition has enabled a broad program of cognitive science research, but may have also prevented researchers from developing paradigms for understanding how interoceptive awareness of sensations from inside the body influences cognition. The cognitive representation of interoceptive signals may play an active role in facilitating therapeutic transformation, e.g. by altering context in which cognitive appraisals of well-being occur. This topic has ramifications into disparate research fields: What is the role of interoceptive awareness in conscious presence? How do we distinguish between adaptive and maladaptive somatic awareness? How do we best measure somatic awareness? What are the consequences of dysregulated somatic/interoceptive awareness on cognition, emotion, and behavior? The complexity of these questions calls for the creative integration of perspectives and findings from related but often disparate research areas including clinical research, neuroscience, cognitive psychology, anthropology, religious/contemplative studies and philosophy.

Author : Diane Grimes,Qiu Wang,Hong Lin
Publisher : Unknown
Page : 0 pages
File Size : 52,7 Mb
Release : 2018
Category : Contemplation
ISBN : 1536140813

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Empirical Studies of Contemplative Practices by Diane Grimes,Qiu Wang,Hong Lin Pdf

This book is a first attempt to associate the interpretation of contemplative approaches to scientific studies. Drawing on expertise from a range of disciplines, including psychology, applied statistics, health sciences, neuroscience, communication, computer science, and information technology, we examine the critical processes of contemplative approaches and aim to guide the scientific research of contemplative practices. The book includes pedagogical and experimental aspects of studies such as research design, measurement, program assessment, statistical modeling, data mining, technology integration, and evaluation.It aims to serve as a forum to inspire empirical studies of contemplative practices that address the complexity and variety of such practice in a thoughtful way. It includes compiled interpretation of bodily manifestations of contemplative practices, psychological analysis of contemplative practices, and systematic studies of the effect of contemplative practices through data analysis. Together, the chapters of this book offer first steps along a path to deeper understanding of contemplative practices.Empirical Studies of Contemplative Practices can serve as a reference book to scholars, researchers, and graduate students across fields of natural and social science. Specifically, this book may be of interest in scholarly arenas such as life sciences, psychology, communication, healthcare, education, and data science. We also hope to draw attention from meditation practitioners as well as those who are interested in religious and philosophical studies.We hope that the systematic study of contemplative approaches can make an impact on the larger population in their daily lives.

Author : Larry Charles Stevens,C. Chad Woodruff
Publisher : Academic Press
Page : 353 pages
File Size : 51,6 Mb
Release : 2018-06-19
Category : Psychology
ISBN : 9780128098387

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The Neuroscience of Empathy, Compassion, and Self-Compassion by Larry Charles Stevens,C. Chad Woodruff Pdf

The Neuroscience of Empathy, Compassion, and Self-Compassion provides contemporary perspectives on the three related domains of empathy, compassion and self-compassion (ECS). It informs current research, stimulates further research endeavors, and encourages continued and creative philosophical and scientific inquiry into the critical societal constructs of ECS. Examining the growing number of electrocortical (EEG Power Spectral, Coherence, Evoked Potential, etc.) studies and the sizeable body of exciting neuroendocrine research (e.g., oxytocin, dopamine, etc.) that have accumulated over decades, this reference is a unique and comprehensive approach to empathy, compassion and self-compassion. Provides perspectives on empathy, compassion and self-compassion (ECS), including discussions of cruelty, torture, killings, homicides, suicides, terrorism and other examples of empathy/compassion erosion Addresses autonomic nervous system (vagal) reflections of ECS Discusses recent findings and understanding of ECS from mirror neuron research Covers neuroendocrine manifestations of ECS and self-compassion and the neuroendocrine enhancement Examines the neuroscience research on the enhancement of ECS Includes directed-meditations (mindfulness, mantra, Metta, etc.) and their effects on ECS and the brain

Author : Tal Dotan Ben-Soussan,Aviva Berkovich-Ohana,Jean-Yves Beziau,Filippo Carducci,Joseph Glicksohn,Narayanan Srinivasan
Publisher : Frontiers Media SA
Page : 126 pages
File Size : 45,8 Mb
Release : 2021-05-20
Category : Science
ISBN : 9782889667895

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Neurophysiology of Silence: Neuroscientific, Psychological, Educational and Contemplative Perspectives by Tal Dotan Ben-Soussan,Aviva Berkovich-Ohana,Jean-Yves Beziau,Filippo Carducci,Joseph Glicksohn,Narayanan Srinivasan Pdf

Author : Reddy, K. Jayasankara
Publisher : IGI Global
Page : 469 pages
File Size : 48,7 Mb
Release : 2024-03-27
Category : Medical
ISBN : 9798369312667

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Principles and Clinical Interventions in Social Cognition by Reddy, K. Jayasankara Pdf

There are a plethora of questions experts are asking surrounding the intersection of clinical intervention practices with social cognition. How do neuro-cognitive processes shape social understanding? What experimental methods illuminate social cognitive complexities? How can social cognition be applied practically in clinical contexts and psycho-social rehabilitation? How does social cognition influence decision-making and cross-cultural perspectives? To find the answers to these concerns, researchers can now look to Principles and Clinical Interventions in Social Cognition, a research book which delves into recent advances, practical applications, and future trajectories within the intricate relationship between social processes and cognitive mechanisms. It adopts a unique structure, each chapter offering a concise introduction to a specific aspect of social cognition. From foundational principles to applications in clinical interventions and individual well-being, it covers neuro-cognitive processes, experiments, and social cognition in various clinical and health conditions. The interdisciplinary nature of this book makes it an authoritative resource for professionals, researchers, and students in psychology, neuropsychology, cognitive psychology, cognitive neuroscience, social work, sociology, management, allied health sciences, and other areas of social science.

Author : Rick Hanson, PhD
Publisher : Harmony
Page : 352 pages
File Size : 51,9 Mb
Release : 2020-05-05
Category : Self-Help
ISBN : 9780593135471

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Neurodharma by Rick Hanson, PhD Pdf

LOS ANGELES TIMES BESTSELLER • “An easy-to-follow road map for creating day-to-day inner peace in today’s increasingly complex world.”—Lori Gottlieb, MFT, New York Times bestselling author of Maybe You Should Talk to Someone Throughout history, people have sought the heights of human potential—to become as wise and strong, happy and loving, as any person can ever be. And now recent science is revealing how these remarkable ways of being are based on equally remarkable changes in our own nervous system, making them more attainable than ever before. In Neurodharma, the follow-up to his classic Buddha’s Brain, New York Times bestselling author Rick Hanson, PhD, not only explores the new neuroscience of awakening but also offers a bold yet plausible plan for reverse-engineering peak experiences, sense of oneness, and even enlightenment itself. And he does so with his trademark blend of solid science and warm encouragement, guiding you along this high-reaching path with good humor, accessible tools, and personal examples. A groundbreaking yet practical book, Neurodharma shares seven practices for strengthening the neural circuitry of profound contentment and inner peace—qualities that offer essential support in everyday life while also supporting the exploration of the most radical reaches of human consciousness. Step by step, this book explains how to apply these insights in order to cultivate unshakable presence of mind, a courageous heart, and serenity in a changing world. The breakthroughs of the great teachers are not reserved for the chosen few. Dr. Hanson shows how we can embody them ourselves in daily life to handle stress, heal old pain, feel at ease with others, and rest in the sense of our natural goodness. The Buddha didn’t use an MRI to become enlightened. Still, 2,500 years after he walked the dusty roads of northern India, neuroscientists are discovering the mechanisms of the brain that underpin the Buddha’s penetrating analysis of the mind. With deep research, stories, guided meditations, examples, and applications, Dr. Hanson offers a fascinating, inspiring vision of who we can be—and an effective path for fulfilling this wonderful possibility.

Author : Françoise Bourzat,Kristina Hunter
Publisher : North Atlantic Books
Page : 304 pages
File Size : 45,9 Mb
Release : 2019-06-25
Category : Body, Mind & Spirit
ISBN : 9781623173500

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Consciousness Medicine by Françoise Bourzat,Kristina Hunter Pdf

A comprehensive guide to the safe and ethical application of expanded states of consciousness for therapists, healing practitioners, and sincere explorers Psychedelic medicines also known as entheogens are entering the mainstream. And it’s no wonder: despite having access to the latest wellness trends and advances in technology, we’re no healthier, happier, or more meaningfully connected. Psilocybin mushrooms, ayahuasca, and LSD—as well as other time-tested techniques with the power to shift consciousness such as drumming, meditation, and vision quests—are now being recognized as potent catalysts for change and healing. But how do we ensure that we’re approaching them effectively? Françoise Bourzat—a counselor and experienced guide with sanctioned training in the Mazatec and other indigenous traditions—and healer Kristina Hunter introduce a holistic model focusing on the threefold process of preparation, journey, and integration. Drawing from more than thirty years of experience, Bourzat’s skillful and heartfelt approach presents the therapeutic application of expanded states, without divorcing them from their traditional contexts. Consciousness Medicine delivers a coherent map for navigating nonordinary states of consciousness, offering an invaluable contribution to the field of healing and transformation.

Author : Anonim
Publisher : Unknown
Page : 0 pages
File Size : 45,8 Mb
Release : 2016
Category : Electronic
ISBN : OCLC:1368426994

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Neural Mechanisms Underlying Movement-Based Embodied Contemplative Practices by Anonim Pdf

Relative to the extensive neuroscientific work on seated meditation practices, far less studies have investigated the neural mechanisms underlying movement-based contemplative practices such as yoga or tai chi. Movement-based practices have, however, been found to be effective for relieving the symptoms of several clinical conditions, and to elicit measurable changes in physiological, neural, and behavioral parameters in healthy individuals. An important challenge for neuroscience is therefore to advance our understanding of the neurophysiological and neurocognitive mechanisms underlying these observed effects, and this Research Topic aims to make a contribution in this regard. It showcases the current state of the art of investigations on movement-based practices including yoga, tai chi, the Feldenkrais Method, as well as dance. Featured contributions include empirical research, proposals of theoretical frameworks, as well as novel perspectives on a variety of issues relevant to the field. This Research Topic is the first of its kind to specifically attempt a neurophysiological and neurocognitive characterization that spans multiple mindful movement approaches, and we trust it will be of interest to basic scientists, clinical researchers, and contemplative practitioners alike.

Author : B. Alan Wallace
Publisher : Columbia University Press
Page : 228 pages
File Size : 49,7 Mb
Release : 2007
Category : Medical
ISBN : 0231138350

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Contemplative Science by B. Alan Wallace Pdf

Science has long treated religion as a set of personal beliefs that have little to do with a rational understanding of the mind and the universe. This work attempts to bridge this gap by launching an unbiased investigation into the history and practices of science and Buddhist contemplative disciplines.

Author : Patricia Owen-Smith
Publisher : Indiana University Press
Page : 162 pages
File Size : 52,6 Mb
Release : 2017-11-30
Category : Education
ISBN : 9780253033352

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The Contemplative Mind in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning by Patricia Owen-Smith Pdf

In The Contemplative Mind in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning, Patricia Owen-Smith considers how contemplative practices may find a place in higher education. By creating a bridge between contemplative practices and the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL), Owen-Smith brings awareness of contemplative pedagogy to a larger audience of college instructors, while also offering classroom models and outlining the ongoing challenges of both defining these practices and assessing their impact in education. Ultimately, Owen-Smith asserts that such practices have the potential to deepen a student’s development and understanding of the self as a learner, knower, and citizen of the world.

Author : Gretchen M. Reevy,Stanley N. Bursten
Publisher : Frontiers Media SA
Page : 82 pages
File Size : 55,6 Mb
Release : 2015-07-22
Category : Psychology
ISBN : 9782889195626

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Pedagogical Psychology: Beyond the 21st Century by Gretchen M. Reevy,Stanley N. Bursten Pdf

Frontiers in Psychology is introducing a new research topic, Pedagogical Psychology: Beyond the 21st Century, which will be released as an online journal issue in summer 2014. The purpose of Beyond the 21st Century will be to publish goal- oriented articles leading to improvement of teaching and learning at all levels of psychology education. Until perhaps 20 years ago, educational approaches to teaching were largely informed by a “Stand and Deliver” pedagogical attitude. The psychology of this approach has often invested unrealistic and unrealizable responsibilities in both teachers and students. With the emergence of electronic data sharing (e.g., the Internet) and global cooperation/competition, newer approaches to teaching have begun to supplement and sometimes replace the older model of teaching. These newer approaches have simultaneously taken advantage of technological advances, global changes, and an evolving understanding of successful student-mentor relationships. As the pedagogical models driven by these changes evolve into the 22nd century and beyond, what seems groundbreaking today will, in hindsight, be seen as hidebound. Thus, the major goal of Beyond the 21st Century will be to publish manuscripts which imaginatively, but realistically anticipate future trends in teaching undergraduate psychology. Types of manuscripts which are appropriate for Pedagogical Psychology should be visionary, yet empirically and/or theoretically based. We welcome manuscripts in all domains of pedagogical psychology, with a special interest on topics that are new, or expected to evolve rapidly. Such innovative topics include, but are not limited to: Online and hybrid teaching; Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs). How has student success improved with the introduction of online/distance education? Are there dangers associated with online/distance education, especially MOOCS? How can student success be improved as technology evolves beyond the MOOC concept? What technological advances will make psychology education available and useful for more, and more diverse students? How can the physical classroom be transformed into a student centered, effective, virtual environment? Using the internet as resources for classes (e.g., stat tutorials, etc.) Uses of technology, such as social media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter), wikis, and clickers in the classroom The challenge of teaching particular courses online, such as psychology laboratory courses or practicums Seeking effective user feedback (i.e., regarding user friendliness, teaching effectiveness) for online courses, including MOOCs The Wikipedia initiative of the Association for Psychological Science Teaching “Generation Me;” anticipating changing generational needs Teaching international students Teaching non-traditional-age students Undergraduate research projects Integrating multiculturalism into all courses Infusing social justice issues into psychology courses Creating opportunities for interdisciplinary learning Teaching techniques for psychology courses which are often offered as electives rather than core curriculum (e.g., evolutionary psychology, psychology and the law, cross-cultural psychology, health psychology, positive psychology) Assessing institutional student learning objectives across the curriculum Contingent faculty/adjunct faculty/lecturers in psychology departments Working with changing legislative & accreditation constraints and unpredictable budgets Co-Hosts of Pedagog