The Science of Mindfulness

A Research-Based Path to Well-Being

By: Ronald Siegel, The Great Courses

Narrated by: Ronald Siegel

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 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.

In addition, this audiobook has complementary soundtracks, which are included in the audiobook from chapters 25 to 29.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your My Library section along with the audio.

©2013 The Great Courses (P)2013 The Teaching Company, LLC

Relaxing and inspiring

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

This book will exhaust every part of mindfulness and give good scientific reasons for using mindfulness.

Any additional comments?

It got too technical at points and was too long for me. But I got plenty of useful ideas and it helped me greatly.

enriching, enjoyable, accessible listening

Would you listen to The Science of Mindfulness again? Why?

yes, it is packed with wonderful information that is relevant to eveyone

What did you like best about this story?

all the examples

What does Professor Ronald Siegel bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

emphasis on life experience and stressing how these practices can change us for the better

What insight do you think you’ll apply from The Science of Mindfulness?

i hope to incorporate mindfulness and meditation into my everyday routine

so helpful

I strongly recommend this. It has truly been helpful to me in hard times as well as simply to understand human nature better.

Smarter already!!!

Enjoyed the information. Reading was perfect for material. Meditation practices were my favorite by far.

One of the best I've heard

I've been a student of human behavior and cognitive behavioral science for about 20 years. I found these lectures both insightful, helpful, and motivating. I found that he balanced some technical details with broader overviews very well. You gave plenty of examples of research to back up what his claims were. He also gave some great examples that everyone could easily fall. I think anyone that reads this and follow through with what he describes will greatly benefit.

More than just the Science of Mindfulness

Siegel ties in a ton of research that involves the mind to give you a broader perspective of the power of both the mind and mindfulness. I was able both see and apply each topic in multiple areas of my life and relationships.
I love his narration (I did listen to it a 1.25x) and his succinct delivery of the material. Which I believe is a testament to his mastery of mindfulness itself.
Highly recommend!

Footnote

Seeing humanity as a super oganism is nice until we remember autophagy. Culling is a dark remnant of history. Let us not forget we are born by charity and live by charity.

Mindfulness practice

Love it . Needed it..it helped center me..budda was right about it. Easily followed. Great narration.

Excellent reference!

I really found this to be tremendously helpful. I have a much better idea now about the different kinds of meditation and when each one has the best application. I like the way the east and the west are blended. Thank you so much for an excellent program!

Great Lectures

Great lectures! Probably one of the best audiobooks I've listened to! The information presented is very well explained.