The Origin of Mindfulness Meditation (+ Modern Manifestations)

An Indian man practicing meditation and an American woman practicing mindfulness depicts the origin of mindfulness meditation

What’s mindfulness meditation rooted in? How did it come to the West and become so popular? The origin of mindfulness meditation is primarily in Theravada Buddhism, the oldest of the three major Buddhist schools. It evolved from traditional practices and was simplified for wider accessibility. Western travelers, including authors Daniel Goleman and Richard Davidson, brought these techniques from India in the 1970s. Read on to discover the fascinating journey of mindfulness from ancient spiritual traditions to modern-day applications.

How Believing in Luck Impacts Your Life (The Luck Factor)

A hand holding a four-leaf clover, showing that they believe in luck

Do you believe in luck? Do you think you’re lucky or unlucky? How might your beliefs change your reality? Psychologist Richard Wiseman performed scientific studies around luck and determined that those who believe in luck tend to have better outcomes in life. Rather than there being a magical force behind luck, it can all be explained with psychology. Here’s a breakdown of why you should believe you’re lucky.

Meditation & Neuroplasticity: The Case for Altered Traits

A woman with her eyes closed while neurons are firing in her brain depicts the link between meditation and neuroplasticity

Is your brain more adaptable than you think? Can meditation really change your fundamental traits? Meditation and neuroplasticity are closely linked, offering exciting possibilities for personal growth. Psychologists Daniel Goleman and Richard Davidson contend that our brains can change in response to mental training, potentially altering our basic characteristics. Read on to explore how meditation can reshape your brain and transform your life, from the book Altered Traits.

Mingyur Rinpoche’s Brain: The Effects of Long-Term Meditation

A Tibetan yogi seen from the back meditating in the mountains illustrates the effects of long-term meditation

What does long-term meditation do to your brain? Can it really change who you are as a person? Yogi Mingyur Rinpoche’s brain scans reveal fascinating insights into the effects of long-term meditation. Scientists have found evidence of increased brain activity, improved brain health, and enhanced emotional regulation in meditation masters. Keep reading to discover how a dedicated meditation practice can lead to profound changes in your mental and emotional states.

Meditation Research: Foundations, Mistakes, & Myths

A man in a white button-up shirt sitting at a desk thoughtfully looking at meditation research data on a computer screen

What are some of the issues with meditation research? Should we believe all the hype? Meditation research is a rapidly growing field, but it faces unique challenges. Scientists are working to understand how different forms of meditation affect the brain and behavior. They’re also trying to develop better ways to measure these effects. Let’s explore the foundations of meditation research, common misconceptions, and why it’s important to approach claims about meditation with a critical eye.

How Meditation Changes the Brain: 5 Effects We Know About

A cartoon of a cute and happy brain with closed eyes illustrates how meditation changes the brain

Is meditation really as beneficial as people claim? What specific changes can it make to your brain and overall well-being? Meditation has gained popularity in recent years, with many touting its numerous benefits. In Altered Traits, Daniel Goleman and Richard Davidson separate the signal from the noise to clarify what we do and don’t know about how meditation changes the brain—and, therefore, the meditator.  Keep reading to learn about the science-backed effects of meditation.

Traditional & Secular Mindfulness in the Modern West

A middle-aged man with white hair and a beard practicing secular mindfulness meditation on a rock by a river

Is mindfulness meditation just for monks and spiritual seekers? Can everyday people benefit from this ancient practice? In Altered Traits, Daniel Goleman and Richard Davidson explain how mindfulness has evolved from its traditional roots to become a popular tool for self-improvement. Today, people approach meditation through various paths, ranging from deep spiritual practices to casual stress relief techniques. Keep reading to understand traditional and secular mindfulness approaches in the West.

Aware: Book Overview & Key Takeaways (Daniel J. Siegel)

A woman with long hair wearing a bluish sweater holding an open hardcover book

How can you expand your consciousness and improve your overall well-being? What benefits might you experience from strengthening your awareness? Aware, a book by Daniel J. Siegel, introduces a meditation tool called the Wheel of Awareness. This practice aims to enhance your focus, emotional health, and cognitive abilities. It also claims to offer physical benefits such as improved immune function and heart health. Read on for an overview of Siegel’s book.