On December 10, 1996, Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor, a thirty-seven-year-old Harvard-trained brain scientist, suffered a rare form of stroke in the left hemisphere of her brain. This event led to a complete deterioration of her cognitive functions within four hours, yet she alternated between the logical left brain and the intuitive right brain, experiencing euphoria and a sense of complete well-being. The book chronicles her eight-year recovery and the profound insights she gained into the brain's functioning and the potential for inner peace. Taylor's experience has been widely acclaimed, including a viral TED talk and recognition as one of TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World in 2008.
In "Whole Brain Living," Jill Bolte Taylor expands on her previous work by introducing a framework for understanding the four distinct characters within the brain. She explains how these characters—two from the left hemisphere and two from the right—influence our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Taylor provides practical strategies for integrating these characters to achieve greater self-awareness and emotional regulation. The book emphasizes the importance of understanding the brain's structure to improve mental well-being. It offers a unique blend of neuroscience and self-help, empowering readers to take control of their mental and emotional states.
In this episode of The Art of Awakening: with Dr. Sue Morter, we sat down with Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor, neuroscientist and bestselling author of Whole Brain Living, to explore the profound journey of awakening to the full potential of our minds. Dr. Taylor shares insights from her own extraordinary experience—a stroke that silenced her left brain and opened the door to deep inner peace—and how we can harness the power of all four brain characters to live with greater balance, joy, and purpose.
Join us as we dive into the science of consciousness, emotional resilience, and the tools to shift from survival mode to awakened presence. Whether you're seeking personal transformation or deeper self-awareness, this conversation will expand your understanding of what it truly means to live a whole-brain life.
Learn more about Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor here: https://www.drjilltaylor.com/
Learn More about the Podcast Here: https://theartofawakening.com/
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Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose medical or psychological conditions nor to claim to prescribe, prevent, treat, mitigate or cure such conditions. The information contained in the program is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a doctor or mental health professional. All viewers of this content are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions and before beginning any new exercise, nutrition, or lifestyle program. Individual results may vary, and no guarantees of specific outcomes are made.
Music by James Asher
Photos of Dr. Sue Morter © Tanya Arianne Malott
The Art of Awakening 
