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In this episode , we are joined by John Dunne, a leading thinker at the intersection of Buddhist philosophy and contemporary science. We explore topics ranging from the nuances of "Buddhist science" and its critiques to the challenges of integrating mindfulness into scientific research, and the new relationship emerging between psychedelics and contemplative practice. We examine the role of phenomenology in contemplative science, the complexities of gathering first-person data, and the media's portrayal of mindfulness, including the potential harms that are often sensationalized. This insightful conversation is essential listening for anyone interested in the evolving relationship between contemplation, mindfulness, and rigorous scientific inquiry.
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In this episode of the Contemplative Science Podcast, host Mark Miller welcomes Brother Phap Linh, a Buddhist monk from Plum Village, to discuss the intersection of science, spirituality, and Buddhism. Brother Phap Linh shares his insights on the limitations of scientific materialism, emphasizing that science often overlooks the fundamental mystery of consciousness. He explores how the belief in a universe made of matter can diminish our sense of meaning and interconnectedness, leading to a worldview that is cold and detached.
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Manglende episoder?
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In this episode, we sit down with cognitive scientist Daniel Meling to explore the fascinating intersection of psychedelics and meditation. Daniel shares insights from his research on DMT and non-dual states, discussing the potential of psychedelics for treating depression and the synergies between these substances and meditative practices. We also examine the current hype around psychedelics, the importance of understanding their risks and benefits, and whether they are truly necessary for achieving profound states of awareness.
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In this episode, we welcome Sam Berrin Shonkoff, Assistant Professor of Jewish Studies at the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley. Sam's expertise in Jewish religious thought provides a unique lens through which we explore contemporary spiritual practices. Our discussion ventures into the use of psychedelics within Judaism, examining their potential to enhance spiritual experiences and religious practices. We also explore the Zen concept of Child Mind or Beginner Mind, uncovering its parallels and applications within Jewish traditions. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that bridges ancient wisdom and modern spirituality.
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In this episode, we welcome philosopher André van der Braak to explore the deeper spiritual and philosophical dimensions of ayahuasca, particularly the concept of ayahuasca as "liquid divinity."
Drawing on the work of French philosopher Bruno Latour, André shifts the focus from individual ayahuasca experiences to communal rituals that foster relationships with more-than-human powers.
The discussion expores how ayahuasca practices transcend personal healing and visions, promoting communal transformative practices that build solidarity with all sentient beings. André's insights provide a fresh perspective on how ayahuasca can inspire deeper connections with the divine and the world around us.
Tune in for a profound journey into the sacred world of ayahuasca with André van der Braak.
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In this episode, host Mark Miller and guests John Vervaeke and Shawn Coyne, delve into the transformative project "Mentoring the Machines." This innovative work bridges the gap between scientific inquiry and narrative storytelling to grapple with the existential challenges posed by artificial general intelligence (AGI).
John Vervaeke, renowned for his insights into the meaning crisis in contemporary society, and Shawn Coyne, a seasoned narrative philosopher and editor, collaborate to articulate the complexities of AI's impact on human existence. They discuss their approach to transforming Vervaekeâs seminal online video essays into a narrative format accessible to all audiences, transcending the boundaries of academia and professional domains.
The conversation highlights the urgency of understanding AI's rapid evolution and its potential to reshape our world fundamentally. From deep fake videos to ethical dilemmas in AI governance, the discussion navigates through the ethical, philosophical, and practical dimensions of this transformative technology.
This episode sets the stage for a series that promises profound insights into how we can navigate and thrive in an increasingly AI-driven world, exploring not only the scientific and technical aspects but also the profound existential questions that arise from the convergence of technology and humanity.
Join us as we contemplate the future and confront the deep impact of an artificially intelligent tomorrow.
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Jamie and Mark discuss the podcast so far and what we have been learning about the wonderful science of meditation.
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Can ultrasound enhance meditation?
Todayâs guest brings his fascinating line of research to reveal the concept, potential, ethics and mitigations for using ultrasound to stimulate the brain during meditation - we welcome Jay Sanguinetti, from the University of Arizona.
Developed with the close collaboration of Shinzen Young, Jayâs research dives into the phenomenological reports and brain imaging of everybody from complete beginners to master meditators like Young himself.
Alongside a dissection of the logistics and results of his experiments, Jay shares his philosophy for implementing it safely - avoiding on-demand peak state generation and rather empowering patients to change in directions that are healthy for them.
Strap in - this is a good one!
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This podcast has a single purpose: to help its listeners integrate the practical lessons of contemplative life. If you enjoyed the episode and youâre interested in finding out more, check out âTraining For Humanityâ - M3CSâs exclusive short courses, including Mindfulness for Wellbeing and Peak Performance, as well as Maintaining a Mindful Life.
Use CODE CONTEMPLATIVE10 for 10% off.
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We need to start prepping our minds for death.
Welcome to a train-your-brain special, diving into new research plans from our very own Dr Mark Miller.
Mark outlines exactly why uncertainty and danger are incredibly beneficial for the predictive mind - training us to be better-equipped when we encounter sickness, injury and death itself.
Because if you want to be really good at reducing uncertainty over a long time - surrounding yourself with short-term uncertainty is exactly the way to do it!
Sharing anecdotes on horror movies, pandemics, public speaking and the common cold, Mark unveils the contemplative paths to embracing uncertainty and shares the preface for exciting, pioneering research on our inner complexities.
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This podcast has a single purpose: to help its listeners integrate the practical lessons of contemplative life. If you enjoyed the episode and youâre interested in finding out more, check out â âTraining For Humanityâ â - M3CSâs exclusive short courses, including Mindfulness for Wellbeing and Peak Performance, as well as Maintaining a Mindful Life.
Use CODE CONTEMPLATIVE10 for 10% off.
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What happens when people start speaking in tongues?
Joining Jamie for a dive into his research is Josh Brahinsky, researcher at UC Berkeley Social Interaction Laboratory.
Josh is fascinated with the phenomenology and neuroscience of what goes on when people speak in tongues - revealing anecdotes from interviews that focus particularly on evangelicals.
Detailing a short history of pentecostalism and comparing similarities of such experiences to psychedelic experiences, our discussion touches on God, awe, de-centring, imagination and the work of colleague and previous guest Dr Michael Lifshitz.
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This podcast has a single purpose: to help its listeners integrate the practical lessons of contemplative life. If you enjoyed the episode and youâre interested in finding out more, check out â â âTraining For Humanityâ â â - M3CSâs exclusive short courses, including Mindfulness for Wellbeing and Peak Performance, as well as Maintaining a Mindful Life.
Use CODE CONTEMPLATIVE10 for 10% off.
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What are the principles of neurotheology?
Who better to answer than Andrew Newberg, acclaimed neuroscientist, professor and author.
In his books, Andrew has laid out pioneering research on the relationship of the brain and spirituality - revealing the inner complexities of how the brain operates when we are spiritual.
Whether thatâs using brain imaging to study Franciscan nuns and Buddhist monks in prayer, or observing brain âresonanceâ when two individuals apply his co-penned Compassionate Communication framework - he is fascinated with the role of spirituality in our lives.
Join us for an illuminating discussion - one that encourages an open mind for whatever the âtruthâ may be!
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This podcast has a single purpose: to help its listeners integrate the practical lessons of contemplative life. If you enjoyed the episode and youâre interested in finding out more, check out â â âTraining For Humanityâ â â - M3CSâs exclusive short courses, including Mindfulness for Wellbeing and Peak Performance, as well as Maintaining a Mindful Life.
Use CODE CONTEMPLATIVE10 for 10% off.
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How do we deal with grief? And how can we better prepare ourselves?
Enter Dr Rachel Taylor, neuropsychologist and founder of UnBroken.
An expert on the cognitive mechanics of grief and loss, Rachel shares her thoughts on how we interface with these difficult experiences - and what we can all do to develop our perception of death.
Touching on mirror neurons and the effects of our environment, the relationship of alcohol with the brain, and the potential upside of planning for death - our candid discussion reveals itself as a lesson for better educating our brains.
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This podcast has a single purpose: to help its listeners integrate the practical lessons of contemplative life. If you enjoyed the episode and youâre interested in finding out more, check out â â âTraining For Humanityâ â â - M3CSâs exclusive short courses, including Mindfulness for Wellbeing and Peak Performance, as well as Maintaining a Mindful Life.
Use CODE CONTEMPLATIVE10 for 10% off.
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Welcome to a deep dive into âselfâ, karma and moral psychology.
Our guide: Kevin Berryman, Buddhist monk and doctoral student at Monash University.
Kevin outlines some topics explored in his research - that aims to get to the bottom of what makes us who we are and how time on the mat influences the way we interact with the world.
Citing Ram Dass, Malcom Gladwell and Robert Sapolsky, our discussion reveals a message of encouragement - to balance internal exploration with a positive, meaningful contribution to the world.
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This podcast has a single purpose: to help its listeners integrate the practical lessons of contemplative life. If you enjoyed the episode and youâre interested in finding out more, check out â â âTraining For Humanityâ â â - M3CSâs exclusive short courses, including Mindfulness for Wellbeing and Peak Performance, as well as Maintaining a Mindful Life.
Use CODE CONTEMPLATIVE10 for 10% off.
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Meditation is not a passive state.
Here to explain why is neuroscientist Giuseppe Pagnoni, Associate Professor at University of Modena and Reggio Emilia.
Diving into the complex inner mechanics of our minds, he shares knowledge on the brain as a predictive machine - citing the free energy principle, active inference and Bayesian mechanics to shine a light on the specific process of meditation.
He shares his thoughts on mind-wandering, âbeing in the presentâ and addiction states, to show why âinactionâ on the mat is very far from an inactive process.
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This podcast has a single purpose: to help its listeners integrate the practical lessons of contemplative life. If you enjoyed the episode and youâre interested in finding out more, check out â âTraining For Humanityâ â - M3CSâs exclusive short courses, including Mindfulness for Wellbeing and Peak Performance, as well as Maintaining a Mindful Life.
Use CODE CONTEMPLATIVE10 for 10% off.
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Trauma needs a rethink.
Here to tell us why is Liam Farquhar, a London-based legal psychedelics guide and somatic experiencing expert.
He shares insights on how the current psychedelic protocols only address trauma at a narrative level, and fail to treat the root of the issue.
As such, his practice takes on a whole-body approach - creating a path to healing that uses discussion, breathwork and movement to ingrain a deep understanding of psychedelic processes in his clients.
Covering MDMA, Ram Dass, accessing âselfâ, menâs therapy and more - todayâs episode is a guide to the possibilities of psychedelic-based treatment.------
This podcast has a single purpose: to help its listeners integrate the practical lessons of contemplative life. If you enjoyed the episode and youâre interested in finding out more, check out â âTraining For Humanityâ â - M3CSâs exclusive short courses, including Mindfulness for Wellbeing and Peak Performance, as well as Maintaining a Mindful Life.
Use CODE CONTEMPLATIVE10 for 10% off.
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We can reconceptualise pain.
Taking us through a fascinating walkthrough of the mechanics of pain is Alex Jinich, PhD student at UC San Diego.
Alexâs mission is to contribute to our understanding of how meditation and other novel therapeutic techniques help reduce pain and improve wellbeing.
Sharing research results, theories and lessons in foundational cognition, we dive into meditationâs links to spheres of suffering, neuroplasticity, chronic pain, placebo and more.
âPain is incredibly more complicated than it first appears.â
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This podcast has a single purpose: to help its listeners integrate the practical lessons of contemplative life. If you enjoyed the episode and youâre interested in finding out more, check out â â âTraining For Humanityâ â â - M3CSâs exclusive short courses, including Mindfulness for Wellbeing and Peak Performance, as well as Maintaining a Mindful Life.
Use CODE CONTEMPLATIVE10 for 10% off.
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A really special episode today.
Dr Mark Miller guides us through a 20 minute practice extremely close to his heart.
Developed by Lama John Makransky, the co-founder of Sustainable Compassion, this practice aims to open the heart and relax the body.
Take this as an opportunity to stop and take a breath.
John's links:
Lama John Makransky - https://www.buddhistinquiry.org/teacher/john-makransky/
Sustainable Compassion - https://sustainablecompassion.org
Awakening From Love - https://wisdomexperience.org/product/awakening-through-love/
His free course - https://www.buddhistinquiry.org/online-programs/compassion-and-awareness/
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This podcast has a single purpose: to help its listeners integrate the practical lessons of contemplative life. If you enjoyed the episode and youâre interested in finding out more, check out â â âTraining For Humanityâ â â - M3CSâs exclusive short courses, including Mindfulness for Wellbeing and Peak Performance, as well as Maintaining a Mindful Life.
Use CODE CONTEMPLATIVE10 for 10% off.
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A re-release! Our conversation with Dr Evan Thompson has been attracting significant attention as we've crossed over into 2023, and we wanted to re-re-release it for new listeners. Enjoy one of our all-time favourite conversations.
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In 2023, Buddhism is perceived as 'spirituality for the rational', fully compatible with cuttingâedge science.
But this view is actually a mistake that does both Buddhism and science a disservice, says Dr Evan Thompson.
Exploring what he calls 'Buddhist exceptionalism', Evan breaks down why Buddhism is treated differently to other spiritual practices, and dives deep into both Western and Buddhist philosophy to explain how the goals of science and religion are fundamentally different.
Covering enlightenment, the ethics of knowledge and non-conceptual experiences, Dr Thompson reframes Buddhism and its role in our spiritual and scientific lives.
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This podcast has a single purpose: to help its listeners integrate the practical lessons of contemplative life. If you enjoyed the episode and youâre interested in finding out more, check out âTraining For Humanityâ - M3CSâs exclusive short courses, including Mindfulness for Wellbeing and Peak Performance, as well as Maintaining a Mindful Life.
Use code CONTEMPLATIVE10 for 10% off.
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Confidence is critical in emotional regulation.
Here to uncover the world of cognitive biases, emotional reactions and wellbeing is Dr Norman Farb from the University of Toronto.
He shares compelling theories and research on how we can develop our ability to change - encouraging engagement in sense-foraging practices that increase entropy in the brain.
Covering habitual patterns of self-reference, acceptance, wisdom and contemplative training⊠todayâs episode is the guide to improving your emotional regulation capacities.------
This podcast has a single purpose: to help its listeners integrate the practical lessons of contemplative life. If you enjoyed the episode and youâre interested in finding out more, check out â â âTraining For Humanityâ â â - M3CSâs exclusive short courses, including Mindfulness for Wellbeing and Peak Performance, as well as Maintaining a Mindful Life.
Use CODE CONTEMPLATIVE10 for 10% off.
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âStart from where you are.â
This is underlined as one of the foundational lessons for starting meditation in a psychotherapy context, by todayâs guest Ian Singer.
Psychotherapist and vastly experienced meditator, Ian has dedicated his career to working with thousands of clients and students across the world.
In our conversation, he shares his philosophies on creating a compassionate space for therapy, some differences in therapeutic approaches and the ways in which his career has evolved his own spiritual practice.
Join us to dig down into an increasingly important topic, on the journey to build bridges between our practice and everyday life.
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This podcast has a single purpose: to help its listeners integrate the practical lessons of contemplative life. If you enjoyed the episode and youâre interested in finding out more, check out â â âTraining For Humanityâ â â - M3CSâs exclusive short courses, including Mindfulness for Wellbeing and Peak Performance, as well as Maintaining a Mindful Life.
Use CODE CONTEMPLATIVE10 for 10% off.
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