Spiritual Archives

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.

Where Does Creativity Come From? Rick Rubin’s Answer

What exactly is creativity? Where does creativity come from? Are there people who are unable to access it? In his book The Creative Act, Rick Rubin asserts that anyone can access creativity. He posits that creativity isn’t something one simply does, but rather an expression of self. Keep reading for an explanation of what creativity is and how you can harness it.

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.

Mindfulness and Art: Why You Need to Pay More Attention

A man sitting on a park bench watching people because mindfulness and art are connected

How are mindfulness and art connected? Why should you pay more attention to your surroundings? If you want to be more creative, then you need to learn how to be more observant. Daily distractions such as cell phones make tapping into creativity more difficult. Here’s what Rick Rubin has to say about artistic mindfulness.

The Benefits of Awareness: Dan Siegel on Living in the Moment

A close-up of a smiling woman looking out the window where the sun is shining illustrates the benefits of awareness

How can living in the present moment enhance your life? What physical benefits might you experience from expanding your awareness? In his book Aware, Dan Siegel discusses the transformative power of awareness in your daily life. From deepening connections to improving mental flexibility, the benefits of awareness extend far beyond the mind. Read on to unlock the secrets of a more conscious and fulfilling life.

Dan Siegel: Integration Is Facilitated by the Wheel Meditation

Is your brain functioning at its best? Can you easily regulate your emotions and behaviors? According to Dan Siegel, integration occurs when various regions of the brain establish effective connections and collaborate seamlessly. The Wheel meditation, a key practice in his approach, helps connect different brain regions. Read on to discover how enhancing your brain’s integration improves your overall well-being.

Focused Attention Meditation With the Wheel of Awareness

a man practicing focused attention meditation in the woods

How can you sharpen your focus and expand your awareness? What benefits might you experience from improving these skills? In Aware, Dan Siegel encourages the practices of focused attention meditation and receptive attention meditation using the Wheel of Awareness. These techniques can help you live more fully in the present moment, experience life with greater richness, and gain a deeper understanding of yourself. Read more to discover how to cultivate these practices and transform your daily life.

The Wheel of Awareness Meditation: Dan Siegel’s How-to Guide

a woman practicing the Wheel of Awareness meditation by a stream in the woods

Is your mind constantly racing, making it difficult to find inner peace? Would you like to cultivate a deeper sense of awareness and connection to yourself and others? The Wheel of Awareness meditation, as described by Daniel J. Siegel in Aware, guides you through different aspects of your experience. With this practice, you explore physical sensations, thoughts, emotions, and your sense of interconnectedness with the world around you. Continue reading to learn how the Wheel of Awareness can transform your meditation practice.